This Easy Crockpot Taco Casserole is a fun and hearty dish! With ground beef, beans, cheese, and your favorite taco toppings, it’s bursting with flavor.
Using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it—perfect for busy days! I love piling on extra cheese and avocado before digging in—who can resist that? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef is the classic choice for this casserole, offering great flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken works well, too!
Taco Seasoning: A packet of taco seasoning adds convenience. If you can’t find it or prefer homemade, mix cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and paprika to create your own blend.
Black Beans: Black beans are fantastic for protein and fiber. You can replace them with pinto beans or kidney beans if you prefer those. Canned chickpeas can also add a nice twist!
Salsa: Choose a salsa based on your spice preference. I like using fresh homemade salsa for more flavor, but bottled works great, too. For a twist, try pico de gallo!
Cheese: Cheddar cheese adds wonderful flavor, while a Mexican blend gives a nice melty finish. Use Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese for a bit of heat.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture in My Taco Casserole?
Achieving the right texture in your casserole is key! Start by browning the ground beef and draining the fat thoroughly. This step helps prevent a greasy dish.
- When mixing ingredients in your crockpot, avoid over-mixing. You want layers to form, especially with the tortilla chips, so they don’t turn soggy.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after cooking. This helps everything set up nicely, making it easier to serve!
Easy Crockpot Taco Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 cup salsa (mild or medium)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese (or more cheddar)
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
- 1/2 cup chopped onion (optional)
- 1/4 cup water
- Optional toppings: sour cream, sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful taco casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then cooks in the crockpot for either 3-4 hours on low or 1.5-2 hours on high. Perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef (and onion if you’re using it) and cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Once it’s fully cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from getting greasy.
2. Mix in the Seasoning:
Add the taco seasoning and water to the skillet, stirring well to ensure the seasoning is evenly mixed into the beef. Let it cook for a minute or two until fragrant.
3. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot:
Transfer the cooked beef mixture to your crockpot. Add in the black beans, drained corn, and salsa. Mix everything together well, and then sprinkle half of the shredded cheeses on top.
4. Layer the Tortilla Chips:
Now it’s time to add the crunch! Spread the crushed tortilla chips evenly over the mixture in the crockpot. Then, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top of the chips.
5. Cook the Casserole:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 3-4 hours, or on high for 1.5-2 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbly!
6. Let it Rest:
Once cooked, remove the lid and let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps everything set up nicely!
7. Add Your Favorite Toppings:
Serve the casserole warm and get creative with toppings! You can add sour cream, slices of avocado, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or even some jalapeños for a bit of heat.
8. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your delicious Easy Crockpot Taco Casserole!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works well in this casserole. Just cook it in the same way as the ground beef, and you’ll still enjoy all the delicious flavors!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
If you want a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with an additional can of beans, such as pinto or kidney beans, or use quinoa for added texture. You can also include more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a hearty twist!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prep all the ingredients the night before, keeping them in the fridge, and then cook them in the crockpot the next day. Just remember to add some extra cooking time if you start with cold ingredients!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or in a pot on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Enjoy!
