why make this recipe
Crockpot Taco Casserole is a great meal for busy days. It’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd.
You just throw everything in the slow cooker, and it does all the work for you. The flavors blend perfectly, making it a dish everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s packed with protein and fiber, thanks to the beans and beef!
how to make Crockpot Taco Casserole
Ingredients :
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 cup salsa
- Tortilla chips (optional, for serving)
3-Step Directions:
- Prepare Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Combine & Cook: In the slow cooker, mix the cooked beef with black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, and salsa. Stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
- Finish & Serve: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded cheese on top and cover until melted. Serve hot with tortilla chips if desired.
how to serve Crockpot Taco Casserole
You can serve Crockpot Taco Casserole hot right from the slow cooker. It’s excellent on its own or with crunchy tortilla chips. Add some fresh toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or diced green onions for extra flavor. This dish also goes well with a side of salad or corn for a balanced meal.
how to store Crockpot Taco Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool down first. Then, place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
tips to make Crockpot Taco Casserole
- For extra flavor, consider adding chopped onions or peppers when cooking the ground beef.
- If you like it spicy, add some diced jalapeños or a few drops of hot sauce.
- You can switch the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a healthier option.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, like pepper jack or cheddar, for a unique twist.
variation
You can easily customize this casserole by adding ingredients like rice or quinoa for more texture. For a vegetarian option, skip the meat and add extra beans or veggies like zucchini and bell peppers.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it and keep it in the fridge overnight. Just cook it the next day in the slow cooker as directed.
Can I use frozen ground beef?
It’s best to thaw the ground beef before cooking it. Cooking from frozen in the slow cooker is not recommended for safety reasons.
How can I make it dairy-free?
You can skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Just make sure to check the labels when buying taco seasoning, as some may contain dairy.
Crockpot Taco Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- In the slow cooker, mix the cooked beef with black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, and salsa. Stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
- About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded cheese on top and cover until melted. Serve hot with tortilla chips if desired.
