Name: Crockpot Taco Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-483889H58M27S
Total time: 4 h 10 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can corn, drained; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 cup salsa; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup crushed tortilla chips

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Looking for a super easy, flavorful dinner that practically cooks itself? This Crockpot Taco Casserole is your answer! With layers of seasoned ground beef, beans, cheese, and crunchy tortilla chips, it’s a comforting, hearty meal that’s perfect for busy days. Just throw everything into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it—your delicious taco casserole will be ready to enjoy when you are.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crockpot Taco Casserole is the ultimate convenience meal. It’s packed with all the classic taco flavors you love, but it’s so much easier than assembling tacos one by one. The best part? It’s made in the crockpot, so you can toss everything in, set it, and go about your day. Plus, the cheesy, savory goodness will have your family asking for seconds!

Ingredients

Here’s a quick peek at the ingredients:

1 lb ground beef
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can corn, drained
1 packet taco seasoning
1 cup salsa
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup crushed tortilla chips

Find the full ingredient list below!

Directions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s fully cooked, drain any excess fat. This step adds flavor to the beef and ensures your casserole has the best texture.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients in the Crockpot

Next, add the cooked ground beef, black beans, corn, taco seasoning, and salsa to the crockpot. Stir everything together so it’s well mixed.

Step 3: Cook on Low

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the flavors have melded together, and everything is heated through.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Tortilla Chips

Once the casserole is done, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Then, gently add the crushed tortilla chips for a little crunch. Cover again and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Expert Tips and Tricks

If you want a spicier kick, try adding a chopped jalapeño or some diced green chilies to the mix.
You can easily swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
If you prefer a creamier casserole, mix in a cup of sour cream before serving or add a few dollops on top when plating.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, skip the ground beef and add extra beans (pinto, black, or kidney beans work well) and some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and onions.
For a dairy-free option, use dairy-free cheese and skip the sour cream topping.
You can also add some taco toppings like guacamole, fresh cilantro, or sliced avocado when serving!

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This Taco Casserole is perfect on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh salad. You could even serve it with a few extra chips on the side for dipping, or top it with some extra salsa and sour cream for added flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or heat it up in a skillet until it’s warmed through. If you have a lot of leftovers, you can also freeze portions for a quick meal later on!

4 FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even pork can easily replace the ground beef in this recipe.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Just cook it in the crockpot the next day.
Can I make this without cheese? Absolutely! You can skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative to suit your dietary needs.
How do I make it spicier? Add some diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or extra taco seasoning to give it an extra kick!

Conclusion

This Crockpot Taco Casserole is one of those meals you’ll come back to time and time again. It’s packed with flavor, super simple to make, and the crockpot does most of the work for you. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even meal prep for the week ahead. Get ready to dig in and enjoy every cheesy, crunchy bite!

Crockpot Taco Casserole

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This Crockpot Taco Casserole is a flavorful and easy dinner with seasoned ground beef, beans, cheese, and crunchy tortilla chips. Perfect for busy days, it cooks in your slow cooker and is sure to be a family favorite.

Author: Touria Elkoudssi
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes (if cooking on low)
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Crockpot/Slow Cooker
Cuisine: Mexican
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 lb ground beef
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can corn, drained
1 packet taco seasoning
1 cup salsa
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup crushed tortilla chips

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Instructions

Brown the Ground Beef: Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Once cooked, drain excess fat.
Combine the Ingredients in the Crockpot: Add the cooked beef, black beans, corn, taco seasoning, and salsa to the crockpot. Stir everything well.
Cook on Low: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours until heated through.
Add Cheese and Tortilla Chips: Top with shredded cheddar cheese and crushed tortilla chips. Cover and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.