This Easy Crockpot Taco Casserole is a family favorite! It’s loaded with tasty ground beef, beans, and cheese, all mixed together and cooked slowly in a cozy crockpot.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a one-pot meal? Just throw everything in, set it, and let the magic happen. I love topping mine with sour cream and chips for some extra fun! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I use lean ground beef for a healthier option. If you prefer turkey or chicken, those work well too! Just be sure to drain any excess grease.
Taco Seasoning: You can use store-bought seasoning or homemade if you want. Mix cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder for a fresh blend.
Black Beans: No black beans? No worries! You can swap them for pinto beans or kidney beans. They all add protein and fiber.
Corn: Fresh or frozen corn can be used instead of canned. It’ll bring a nice crunch and sweetness to the dish!
Diced Tomatoes: Look for anything with added flavors, like chilies. If you’re avoiding tomatoes, consider using chopped bell peppers or zucchini for bulk.
Cheese: While I love cheddar and a Mexican blend, you can easily substitute with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a little spice.
How Do I Cook Ground Beef Perfectly for the Casserole?
Cooking ground beef can seem tricky, but it’s essential for good flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use medium heat to avoid burning. This allows the beef to brown nicely.
- Break it apart with a spatula, so it cooks evenly without clumping.
- Make sure to drain any excess fat; it makes the casserole greasy if left in.
- Season at least halfway through cooking to really enhance the flavor.
Following these steps will give your casserole a great meat base that complements the other ingredients beautifully!
Easy Crockpot Taco Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel), undrained
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
- Optional toppings: sour cream, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, additional tortilla chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Crockpot Taco Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and then cooks for 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. Just set it and forget it while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. When it’s no longer pink, drain off any excess fat to keep the casserole from being greasy.
2. Add the Taco Seasoning:
Into the skillet with the browned beef, sprinkle in the taco seasoning mix. Add 2/3 cup of water and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes. This will help the flavors combine and thicken up a bit!
3. Combine in the Crockpot:
Now, it’s time to mix everything in the crockpot! Transfer the seasoned beef to the crockpot, and add in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and salsa. Stir gently until everything is nicely combined.
4. Add the Cheeses:
Mix in half of the shredded cheeses to create a melty goodness throughout. Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook. Choose either low heat for 4-6 hours or high heat for about 2-3 hours, depending on your schedule.
5. Melt the Cheese:
About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the casserole. Cover it again and let the heat melt the cheese into a gooey delight!
6. Serve & Enjoy:
When it’s time to serve, give the casserole a good sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips right on top for that extra crunch. If you like, add some sour cream, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro for an added burst of flavor. Enjoy this warm and hearty meal with friends and family!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for a leaner option. Just follow the same cooking instructions, but be sure to drain any extra fat if you’re using a higher-fat turkey product.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, transfer any cooled casserole to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just be sure to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Add More Veggies?
Definitely! Feel free to sneak in extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition. Just chop them up and toss them in with the other ingredients in the crockpot.
What Can I Serve with This Casserole?
This taco casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but you can pair it with a simple side salad or some fresh guacamole for a complete meal. Serve with additional tortilla chips for scooping, too!
