Why Make This Recipe

Crockpot Taco Casserole is a wonderful dish that marries convenience with flavor. If you’re looking for a one-pot meal that’s simple to prepare, delicious, and perfect for any occasion, this recipe is a fantastic choice. The slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing the ingredients to meld together and create a flavorful, hearty meal.

Family dinners can be hectic, and this casserole makes it easy to serve everyone something they’ll love. It’s packed with protein from the beef and black beans, veggies from the corn and tomatoes, and a delightful crunch from the tortilla chips. Plus, you can top it with sour cream and green onions for a fresh finish!

Whether you’re having friends over for game night, looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening, or simply want to enjoy a comfort food classic, Crockpot Taco Casserole is sure to satisfy. Let’s dive into the recipe so you can start enjoying this tasty dish.

How to Make Crockpot Taco Casserole

Making Crockpot Taco Casserole is easy and straightforward. This dish requires some basic ingredients and a few simple steps. Here’s everything you need to know to make this flavorful casserole in your slow cooker.

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 packet taco seasoning
3 cups tortilla chips
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Sour cream and chopped green onions for topping (optional)

Directions:

In a skillet, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion until the beef is fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
In a slow cooker, layer the cooked beef and onion on the bottom.
Add in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
Layer the tortilla chips over the mixture, followed by the shredded cheese.
Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve hot, topped with sour cream and green onions if desired.

How to Serve Crockpot Taco Casserole

When your Crockpot Taco Casserole is ready, it’s time to serve! Here are some simple serving suggestions:

Portion it out: Scoop out servings onto plates or into bowls.
Top it off: Add a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle chopped green onions on top for extra flavor.
Pair it with sides: Consider serving with a side of chips and salsa or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
Make it a feast: Add more toppings like sliced jalapeños, avocado, or cilantro for a personalized touch.

Crockpot Taco Casserole is great for casual gatherings or family dinners. Guests can help themselves, and there’s no need for formal plating.

How to Store Crockpot Taco Casserole

If you have leftovers, you’ll want to store them properly so you can enjoy your delicious casserole another day. Here’s how to store it:

In the fridge: Place the cooled casserole in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
In the freezer: If you’d like to keep it longer, you can freeze the casserole. Use a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw if frozen, then microwave or bake in the oven until warmed through. Add a bit of extra cheese on top before reheating for an even cheesier experience!

Tips to Make Crockpot Taco Casserole

To make the most out of your Crockpot Taco Casserole, consider these helpful tips:

Use lean beef: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce the fat content and make the dish a little healthier.
Slow cooker size: Ensure your slow cooker is large enough to hold all the ingredients. A larger cooker works best for this recipe.
Customize the flavors: Feel free to adjust the spices by adding more seasoning or using different kinds of beans or veggies based on what you have available.
Add toppings: Experiment with various toppings, such as crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch, or fresh herbs for a burst of freshness.

Variation

The beauty of Crockpot Taco Casserole is in its versatility. Here are some variations you can try:

Vegetarian Version: Swap out the ground beef for a meat alternative like lentils or mushrooms to create a delicious vegetarian casserole.
Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to raise the heat level.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with various cheese blends. Pepper jack or queso fresco can add unique flavors to the dish.
Add Veggies: Incorporate bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and color.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the ingredients a day ahead, layering them in the slow cooker. Store it in the refrigerator overnight and cook it the next day. Just remember to add extra cooking time if the ingredients are cold.

Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu can be used as alternatives to ground beef. Adjust the cooking time as necessary, especially if using a leaner meat.

Is this dish gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free tortilla chips and checking the taco seasoning for gluten-free certification. Most canned products in this recipe are gluten-free, but it’s always good to read the labels to be sure.

With these simple instructions and tips, you’re all set to whip up a delicious Crockpot Taco Casserole. Your family and friends will love it, and it’s sure to become a regular part of your meal rotation! Enjoy!

Crockpot Taco Casserole

Author: amanda-hart
Total Time: 255 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Omnivore

Description

A flavorful and hearty one-pot meal made with ground beef, black beans, corn, and topped with tortilla chips and cheese.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 packet taco seasoning
3 cups tortilla chips
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Sour cream and chopped green onions for topping (optional)

Instructions

In a skillet, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion until the beef is fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
In a slow cooker, layer the cooked beef and onion on the bottom.
Add in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
Layer the tortilla chips over the mixture, followed by the shredded cheese.
Cover and cook on low for 240-360 minutes or high for 120-180 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve hot, topped with sour cream and green onions if desired.

Notes

Consider adjusting toppings and ingredients based on preferences. Make it vegetarian by substituting the beef with lentils or mushrooms.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 240 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 500
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 8g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: crockpot, taco casserole, slow cooker, comfort food, easy recipe