This Easy Crockpot Taco Casserole is a fun mix of seasoned meat, beans, and cheesy goodness all in one pot! Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic.
I love how this dish fills the house with mouth-watering smells. Plus, you can top it with sour cream and crushed chips for a crunchy twist. Who doesn’t love dinner made easy?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef is classic, but I often switch to ground turkey for a leaner option. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian twist!
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought seasoning is super convenient, but I love making my own with spices like chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder. This way, I control the heat!
Black Beans: Feel free to use pinto beans or kidney beans if you prefer. They both add great texture and flavor. Canned beans save time, but cooking dried beans can enhance flavor.
Diced Tomatoes: If canned tomatoes aren’t your favorite, fresh diced tomatoes work well too. Just make sure to add a little extra seasoning since they might be less flavorful than canned.
Cheese: Cheddar and Monterey Jack are tasty, but you can mix it up with pepper jack for some heat. Vegan cheeses also work well if you’re avoiding dairy.
How Do I Get the Beef Just Right?
Cooking the ground beef correctly sets the foundation for your casserole. Here’s my technique:
- Heat the skillet over medium heat. Don’t rush—let it warm up!
- Add the ground meat and break it apart with a spatula. Keep stirring to cook evenly.
- Look for a nice brown color; this adds depth to the flavor. Once it’s browned, drain any extra fat.
- Mix in the taco seasoning with a splash of water to avoid clumps and ensure the flavors coat the meat evenly.
Taking these steps will help you achieve perfectly seasoned, brown beef that elevates your casserole!
Easy Crockpot Taco Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn kernels, drained
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel), undrained
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips or Doritos
- 1/2 cup diced onion (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (optional)
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- Sour cream, for serving
- Extra crushed chips, for serving
Time Needed:
This delicious Crockpot Taco Casserole takes about 15 minutes of preparation time. Then you’ll let it cook in the crockpot for 3 to 4 hours on LOW or 1.5 to 2 hours on HIGH. Perfect for busy days when you just want to set it and forget it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or turkey) until it’s fully browned. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break it up into small bits with a spatula as it cooks. Once it’s done, drain any excess fat.
2. Season the Meat:
Add the taco seasoning mix to the browned meat along with a splash of water (about 1/4 cup). Stir everything together so the meat is coated nicely and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In your crockpot, combine the seasoned beef, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with chilies (don’t drain them!), and tomato sauce. If you’re using onions, bell peppers, or black olives, add them in too. Stir everything together until well mixed.
4. Layer the Casserole:
Once everything is mixed, spread the mixture evenly in the bottom of the crockpot. This helps it cook evenly.
5. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly on top of the mixture. What’s a casserole without cheese, right?
6. Cook and Melt:
Cover your crockpot and set it to cook. Choose LOW for 3 to 4 hours or HIGH for 1.5 to 2 hours. You’ll know it’s done when it’s bubbly and the cheese is melted!
7. Add the Crunch:
Just before serving, sprinkle crushed tortilla chips over the top for a nice crunch. It adds a fabulous texture!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Don’t forget to garnish with chopped cilantro if you like! Serve it warm with a dollop of sour cream and extra crushed chips on the side for dipping.
Enjoy your Easy, Cheesy, and Hearty Crockpot Taco Casserole!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Taco Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for ground beef. It will still provide wonderful flavor when seasoned with taco seasoning!
What Can I Use Instead of Taco Seasoning?
If you don’t have taco seasoning handy, you can mix your own using spices like chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Simply use about 2 tablespoons for this recipe!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months; just let it cool completely before freezing!
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add any veggies you like, such as zucchini, spinach, or even diced carrots. Just chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly with the other ingredients.
