As someone juggling a busy work schedule and a love for cooking, I'm always on the hunt for recipes that bring comfort with minimal effort. This Slow Cooker Mexican Hamburger and Shells dish is one of my go-tos. It combines hearty ground beef, tender pasta shells, and vibrant Mexican flavors, making it a true crowd-pleaser. The beauty of this dish is that it lets you enjoy a wholesome, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for a weekday dinner, it's the kind of recipe that warms your soul and fills your home with delicious aromas.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad of crisp romaine, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. If you're feeling extra indulgent, serve it with a side of guacamole and tortilla chips for added crunch. And don't forget a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top of the shells—it adds a creamy, zesty finish that ties everything together.
Slow Cooker Mexican Hamburger and ShellsServings: 6
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 packet taco seasoning mix
1 cup beef broth
2 cups uncooked pasta shells
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Directions
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Transfer the beef mixture to your slow cooker. Stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, taco seasoning, and beef broth.
Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours.
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked pasta shells. Cover and cook until the pasta is tender.
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Variations & Tips
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner version, or use whole grain pasta for a healthier twist. If you prefer spicier food, add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce. For a vegetarian option, skip the ground beef and double up on the beans and veggies. And if you're short on time in the evening, you can prepare the beef mixture the night before and refrigerate it—just pop it into the slow cooker in the morning before you head to work.
