Crockpot Taco Casserole

A Flavorful Fiesta in a Dish!

If you’re in the mood for a cozy, delicious meal that brings the family together, look no further than the Crockpot Taco Casserole! This hearty dish combines all the flavors of taco night with the ease of slow cooking, bringing you a savory casserole that’s both creamy and satisfying. Imagine sinking your teeth into layers of seasoned meat, beans, and cheese, all bubbling together in a delicious harmony.

What makes this dish extra special is its simplicity—just toss the ingredients into your crockpot and let it do all the work! It’s perfect for busy families or anyone who wants to enjoy a meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Did you know that taco casserole has become a staple in many households? It’s a true crowd-pleaser, just like our popular One-Pot Chicken Pasta! With just a few fresh ingredients, you can create an incredible feast that will leave everyone asking for seconds. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking—you’ll be glad you did!

What is Crockpot Taco Casserole?

What exactly is this wonderfully named dish, Crockpot Taco Casserole? Is it a casserole? A taco? Both? Well, you’ve hit the jackpot! This delightful recipe combines the best of both worlds, bringing together tender ground beef (or turkey), zesty taco seasonings, and all the fixings you love about tacos, layered into a dreamy casserole that cooks itself while you go about your day.

It’s a dish so comforting that you might just attract the attention of your loved ones faster than if you were baking cookies! Who knows, maybe ‘the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach’ will ring true with this casserole. If you’re curious about whether you should try it out for dinner, the answer is a resounding YES! Get your crockpot ready—this recipe is calling your name.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Taco Casserole

One of the main highlights of Crockpot Taco Casserole is the incredible flavor packed into every spoonful. The slow-cooked seasoned meat combined with wholesome ingredients creates a symphony of tastes that tantalizes the taste buds. Additionally, making this casserole at home is a surefire way to save money, especially when compared to dining out for Tacos every week.

Now let’s talk toppings! You can customize your casserole with anything from shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes to tangy sour cream and crunchy tortilla chips. Each topping adds a delightful twist that transforms a simple meal into a flavor-packed fiesta on your plate! Why not explore our Loaded Nacho Bake for another scrumptious dish that will have your family raving? It’s time to add this Taco Casserole to your weeknight rotation!

How to Make Crockpot Taco Casserole

Quick Overview

This Crockpot Taco Casserole is a breeze to prepare and is bursting with flavor. Picture this—layering seasoned ground meat with beans and cheese, leaving it to simmer in the slow cooker for hours, filling your home with mouth-watering aromas. Preparation takes about 15 minutes and then simply set your crockpot, and let it work its magic!

Key Ingredients for Crockpot Taco Casserole

• 2 lbs ground beef (or turkey)
• 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 shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1 cup salsa
• Tortilla chips (for topping)
• Optional: diced onions, sliced olives, jalapeños, and sour cream for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Brown the Meat: In a skillet, cook the ground beef (or turkey) over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
2. Combine Ingredients: In your crockpot, combine the browned meat, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, and salsa. Stir well to incorporate all ingredients.
3. Layer with Cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded cheese on top of the mixture.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours until everything is heated through and bubbly.
5. Add Final Layer: About 15 minutes before serving, add the remaining cheese on top and cover until melted.
6. Serve & Enjoy: Serve hot, garnished with crispy tortilla chips and your choice of toppings like sour cream, lettuce, and jalapeños!

What to Serve Crockpot Taco Casserole With

Crockpot Taco Casserole is a meal on its own, but pairing it with some delicious sides can elevate your dining experience. Consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad, crispy guacamole, or even Spanish rice for a complete Mexican feast. A cold glass of lemonade or a classic margarita could complement this casserole beautifully as well.

Top Tips for Perfecting Crockpot Taco Casserole

• Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the meat with beans, lentils, or even meat alternatives for a delicious vegetarian version.
• Ingredient Adjustments: Feel free to switch up the beans or types of cheese based on your preference!
• Avoiding Sogginess: If you prefer your casserole to have a little crunch, add the tortilla chips just before serving rather than during cooking.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftovers? Oh yes, please! Allow your Crockpot Taco Casserole to cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or put a portion in a saucepan on low heat. Just make sure to stir occasionally and monitor it to avoid burning.

So, are you ready to dive into an amazing fiesta of flavors? Gather your ingredients, set your crockpot, and enjoy a delightful evening with family and friends! Happy cooking!

Crockpot Taco Casserole

A hearty dish combining all the flavors of taco night with the ease of slow cooking, resulting in a savory casserole layered with seasoned meat, beans, and cheese.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 6 hours hrs

Total Time 6 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef (or turkey) Can use either beef or turkey.
• 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 shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1 cup salsa
• to taste Tortilla chips (for topping) For serving.

Optional Garnishes

• to taste diced onions Optional
• to taste sliced olives Optional
• to taste jalapeños Optional
• to taste sour cream Optional

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a skillet, cook the ground beef (or turkey) over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
2. In your crockpot, combine the browned meat, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, and salsa. Stir well to incorporate all ingredients.
3. Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded cheese on top of the mixture.

Cooking

1. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours until everything is heated through and bubbly.
2. About 15 minutes before serving, add the remaining cheese on top and cover until melted.

Serving

1. Serve hot, garnished with crispy tortilla chips and your choice of toppings like sour cream, lettuce, and jalapeños.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, substitute meat with beans, lentils, or meat alternatives. Adjust beans or cheese based on preference. If you prefer crunch, add tortilla chips just before serving.