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Crock Pot Taco Shells and Cheese

Crock Pot Taco Shells and Cheese

Easy Crock Pot Taco Shells and Cheese is a fresh, fuss-free recipe combining creamy melted cheese and tender taco shells cooked right in the crock pot. Perfect for busy families or casual gatherings, this hearty, cheesy dish offers customizable flavors and minimal cleanup, making mealtime quick, delicious, and enjoyable.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups shredded cheese blend (cheddar and Monterey Jack recommended)
  • 810 soft corn tortillas
  • 2 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes, drained

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meat (Optional): Cook the ground beef or turkey in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat, stir in taco seasoning and a few tablespoons of water, then simmer until the flavors meld. Set aside.
  2. Layer the Tortillas: Lightly butter each tortilla and layer them inside the crock pot, folding slightly to mimic taco shell shapes. The butter prevents sticking and adds a slight crispiness.
  3. Add Cheese and Fillings: Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese across the tortilla layers. Add the cooked meat or vegetarian filling and diced tomatoes. Repeat layering until all ingredients are used, creating a stacked assembly.
  4. Cook Low and Slow: Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 2 to 3 hours, allowing the cheese to melt thoroughly and tortillas to absorb all flavors.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Carefully scoop out portions and serve hot. Garnish with fresh herbs, sour cream, or salsa for extra flavor.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and to prevent clumping.
  • Distribute ingredients evenly to ensure balanced flavor in every bite.
  • Do not overfill the crock pot to allow proper heat circulation and even cooking.
  • Choose high-quality corn tortillas for better shape and texture retention.
  • If mixture appears dry during cooking, add a splash of salsa or stock for added moisture.

Nutrition

Keywords: crock pot, taco shells, cheese recipe, easy, slow cooker, Mexican, cheesy, family-friendly, gluten free