This Easy Crockpot Taco Casserole is a winner for busy days! Just throw in ground beef, beans, corn, and your favorite taco spices. Let the slow cooker do its magic!
This dish is like taco night in a cozy bowl. I love how it’s ready when I am, and leftovers are even better! 🌮 Just top it with cheese and sour cream, and you’re good to go!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you’re vegetarian, try crumbled tofu or veggie crumbles that work well in this dish.
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought is handy, but you can make your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder. This allows you to control the spice level!
Black Beans: If you’re not a fan of black beans, pinto beans or kidney beans are great alternatives for the same texture and nutrition.
Corn: You can use frozen corn if you prefer. Just toss it in directly from the bag without thawing!
Tortilla Chips: While I love the crunch of tortilla chips, you can use crushed corn tortillas or even tortilla wraps cut up, baked until crispy!
How Can You Make Sure Your Taco Casserole is Perfectly Layered?
Layering is key for even flavor distribution in the casserole. Start with mixing the main ingredients like beef, beans, and salsa. This ensures each scoop has plenty of filling. Use a spoon to spread out the layers gently. Don’t mound the chips too high; it helps avoid uneven cooking.
- Mix all the main ingredients thoroughly before layering.
- Try to keep layers thin and even for balanced cooking.
- Use plenty of cheese to ensure a melty topping that holds everything together.
Easy Crockpot Taco Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
- 4 cups tortilla chips, slightly crushed
Optional Toppings:
- sour cream
- sliced jalapeños
- chopped green onions
- chopped cilantro
Time Estimate:
This Easy Crockpot Taco Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cooks for 3-4 hours on low. Perfect for a hassle-free dinner that you can set and forget!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and fully cooked. Make sure to drain any excess fat to keep it nice and delicious!
2. Add Taco Seasoning:
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef and add a splash of water. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 2 minutes to infuse those tasty flavors.
3. Mix in the Ingredients:
In your crockpot, combine the seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and salsa. Mix it all together so every ingredient is well combined.
4. Layer the Tortilla Chips:
Layer half of the crushed tortilla chips over the mixture in the crockpot. This will help create a delicious crunchy layer.
5. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the tortilla chips, allowing that cheesy goodness to blend in.
6. Repeat the Layers:
Now, repeat the layers with the remaining crushed tortilla chips and cheese, creating a hearty, cheesy second layer on top.
7. Cook the Casserole:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until everything is heated through and the cheese is all melted and bubbly. Yum!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done, serve it warm and top it off with sour cream, sliced jalapeños, chopped green onions, or cilantro if you like. Enjoy this delightful and easy pasta casserole with family and friends!
This casserole is a fantastic choice for an easy weeknight dinner, packed with hearty flavors and minimal prep—enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Taco Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works perfectly in this recipe if you’re looking for a leaner option. Simply follow the same cooking instructions, and you’ll have a delicious dish!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to heat it through evenly.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Toppings Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative with toppings! Along with the suggested sour cream, jalapeños, and green onions, you could also add avocado slices, fresh salsa, or even guacamole for extra flavor!
