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Crock Pot Taco Shells and Cheese

Crock Pot Taco Shells and Cheese
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This Crock Pot Taco Shells and Cheese recipe offers a fun, easy, and hands-off way to enjoy flavorful, tender taco shells layered with melted cheese and savory seasoned meat. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or game-day snacks, this slow cooker dish combines bold Mexican-inspired spices, rich textures, and minimal cleanup for an effortless comfort meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 12 corn tortillas (soft yet sturdy for slow cooking)
  • 2 cups shredded cheese blend (cheddar and Monterey Jack)
  • 1 lb ground beef or ground chicken (or plant-based protein alternative)
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (cumin, chili powder, paprika blend)
  • 1 cup salsa or diced tomatoes
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Prep Your Ingredients: Finely chop the onions and garlic. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or alternative protein with a bit of oil. Add taco seasoning and mix well to infuse the flavors. Drain any excess fat before proceeding.
  2. Layer the Ingredients: Lightly spray the inside of your slow cooker with olive oil or non-stick spray. Arrange corn tortillas in overlapping circles to form stable taco shells. Spread a layer of the seasoned meat mixture evenly over the tortillas, then sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese on top. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a top layer of cheese.
  3. Add Moisture and Set the Crock Pot: Pour salsa or diced tomatoes over the layered ingredients to add moisture and assist in melting the cheese smoothly. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours, until cheese is fully melted, bubbling, and the taco shells have softened but maintain shape.
  4. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooking is complete, allow the dish to rest for 10 minutes to firm up. Carefully scoop portions onto plates with a spatula and add preferred toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, or fresh salsa for enhanced flavor.

Notes

  • Use fresh, pliable corn tortillas to prevent cracking during layering and cooking.
  • Do not overload the crock pot; balanced layers help avoid sogginess and promote even cooking.
  • Generously layer cheese to act as a binder that keeps tacos moist and delicious.
  • Mix cooked meat thoroughly with seasoning before layering to ensure consistent flavor throughout.
  • Let the dish rest for 10 minutes after cooking to firm up and simplify serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker, crock pot, tacos, melted cheese, Mexican recipe, family dinner, easy dinner, game-day snacks, comfort food

Find it online: https://elenaglam.com/crock-pot-taco-shells-and-cheese/