This Easy Crockpot Taco Casserole is a fun and tasty meal! It’s packed with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and cheesy goodness all cooked together in one pot.
Making this dish is so simple! Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it cook while you relax. It’s perfect for busy days or when you just want a yummy dinner without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in your casserole. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you want a vegetarian version, try using lentils or mushrooms instead!
Black Beans: They add fiber and texture. If you don’t have them, kidney beans or pinto beans work well too. You could also use lentils for a different flavor.
Corn: Canned corn is super easy, but frozen corn can be tossed in directly too. If you want a sweet touch, consider using sweet corn for a nice contrast in flavors.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: Rotel is popular here, but if you can’t find it, just use regular diced tomatoes and add some chopped jalapeños for heat. Canned tomatoes without chilies are another option!
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought is fine, but you can also make your own by mixing chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. This lets you control the spice level!
How Can I Get the Best Flavor from My Casserole?
To pack in flavor, cooking the ground beef until fully browned is key. It helps develop a rich taste. Don’t rush this step! Drain any excess fat, so your casserole isn’t greasy. Mixing everything in the crockpot evenly will also ensure all the flavors blend beautifully.
- Brown the beef and drain it well for less grease.
- Stir ingredients in the crockpot well to combine their flavors.
- Don’t skip the cheese melting step; it brings the whole casserole together!
Easy Crockpot Taco Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel), undrained
- 1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper (optional)
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips or strips (optional)
- Sour cream and chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious crockpot taco casserole requires about 15 minutes of prep time. Cooking it will take anywhere from 2 to 5 hours, depending on whether you choose to cook on high or low. Just assemble everything and let the slow cooker do the work!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s well browned. Make sure to break it apart as it cooks. Once brown, drain off any excess fat to keep the dish lighter.
2. Mix It Up:
Next, transfer the cooked ground beef to your crockpot. Then add the black beans, corn, undrained diced tomatoes with green chilies, taco seasoning mix, salsa, chopped onion, and bell pepper (if you’re using it). Use a spoon to stir everything together so that all the flavors mix nicely!
3. Let It Cook:
Now it’s time to cover your crockpot! Set it to cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. Keep it covered during this time to retain the heat and moisture!
4. Add the Cheese:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover the crockpot again to let the cheese melt into gooey perfection!
5. Final Touches:
If you want some crunch, sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top just before serving. Then, dish out your casserole warm, and add a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro if you like!
Enjoy your easy and flavorful crockpot taco casserole!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Taco Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef. Just make sure to follow the same cooking instructions. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make this casserole vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with an equivalent amount of cooked lentils, crumbled tofu, or additional beans. This will maintain the hearty texture while keeping it meat-free!
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance! Assemble everything in the crockpot the night before and store it in the fridge. In the morning, simply cook it on low for 4 to 5 hours. Just remember to add the cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of salsa or water to keep it moist if needed.
