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- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey) - 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed - 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed - 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained - 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies - 1 packet taco seasoning - 1 cup salsa These main ingredients form the base of your Crockpot Taco Casserole. The ground beef or turkey adds protein. Black beans and kidney beans boost fiber and taste. Corn gives a nice crunch, while the diced tomatoes with green chilies add a spicy kick. Taco seasoning and salsa tie it all together with flavor. - 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend) - 1 cup tortilla chips, crushed - Optional toppings: sour cream, avocado, chopped cilantro, jalapeños Adding shredded cheese on top creates a cheesy layer that melts into your casserole. Crushed tortilla chips give a tasty crunch. You can top your dish with sour cream and avocado for creaminess. Fresh cilantro adds brightness, and jalapeños provide extra heat if you like spice. These optional ingredients let you customize your casserole. Feel free to mix and match based on what your family enjoys! {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by browning your ground beef or turkey in a skillet over medium heat. Stir the meat often. Cook until it turns brown and is no longer pink. This takes about 7 to 10 minutes. Next, drain any excess fat from the meat. You want the meat to be lean and tasty. This step helps avoid greasy casserole. Once your meat is ready, transfer it to the crockpot. Then, layer in the canned ingredients. Add the drained black beans, kidney beans, and corn. Pour in the diced tomatoes with green chilies. Now, sprinkle in the taco seasoning. This gives your casserole lots of flavors. Stir everything together until it is well mixed. Don't forget to pour in the salsa! This adds a nice kick. Give it a gentle stir to blend the salsa with the other ingredients. Cover your crockpot. You can cook it on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. Both ways work well, but low heat makes it better. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the crushed tortilla chips and half of the shredded cheese. This adds crunch and flavor. Finally, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Cover the crockpot again and let it melt for about 15 to 20 minutes. This step makes the casserole gooey and delicious. Enjoy your meal! To make your taco casserole just right, you can adjust the spiciness. If you like it hot, add sliced jalapeños. You can mix them in or place them on top right before serving. This gives a nice kick for those who enjoy heat. For even cooking, layer your ingredients well. Start with the meat, then add beans, corn, and tomatoes. Make sure to stir everything together. This helps the flavors meld and ensures each bite tastes great. To make your meal pop, consider some tasty garnishes. Sour cream adds creaminess, while avocado gives a fresh taste. Chopped cilantro brightens up the dish, making it look nice. You can also sprinkle some crushed tortilla chips on top for crunch. When plating, use bowls to serve. Make it fun by adding a dollop of sour cream and a slice of avocado on top. This not only looks good but also makes each bite more enjoyable. If you want more spice, add jalapeños to individual bowls. Pro Tips Use Lean Meat: Opt for lean ground beef or turkey to reduce fat content and calories, making the dish healthier without sacrificing flavor. Customize the Spice: Adjust the amount of taco seasoning or add fresh jalapeños if you prefer a spicier casserole. Taste as you go! Add Fresh Vegetables: Incorporate chopped bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for added nutrition and texture in the casserole. Serve with Fresh Toppings: Enhance your casserole with fresh toppings like diced tomatoes, avocado slices, and cilantro to brighten the flavors. {{image_2}} You can change the protein in this dish easily. Try using chicken instead of ground beef. Shredded rotisserie chicken works great. If you're vegetarian, opt for lentils or mushrooms. These give a nice texture. You can also swap the beans. If you don't like black beans, use pinto beans or chickpeas. They add their own flavor and protein. For veggies, add bell peppers or zucchini. These add color and nutrition. To give your casserole a kick, add spices like cumin or smoked paprika. They boost the flavor! You can also toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. They add brightness to the dish. Cheese is essential too. While cheddar is a classic choice, try pepper jack for some heat. Feta can give a tangy taste. You can mix different cheeses for a richer flavor. Choose what you love most! To store your taco casserole in the fridge, let it cool first. Then, place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. You can store it for about 3-4 days. When you want to eat it again, just reheat it in the microwave or on the stove. Freezing is a great option for longer storage. First, let the casserole cool. Then, cut it into portions. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. This helps avoid freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. When you are ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. For best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot. You can add extra cheese on top before baking for a nice touch. Enjoy your meal! You can easily swap out the meat. Use one pound of chopped mushrooms or lentils instead of ground beef or turkey. Both options add great texture. You can also add more beans, like pinto beans or chickpeas. These will make your casserole hearty and filling. Yes, you can prep this casserole in advance! Brown the meat and mix all other ingredients in the crockpot. Cover it and place it in the fridge overnight. When ready, just cook it on low for 4 to 6 hours. This saves time on busy days. This casserole pairs well with many sides. Some great options are: - Rice or quinoa for a filling base - Fresh salad for a light crunch - Cornbread for a sweet touch - Guacamole and chips for extra dip These sides add variety and make your meal even better. You learned how to make a tasty Crockpot Taco Casserole. We covered the main and optional ingredients, plus step-by-step cooking instructions. Tips and variations help you make it your own. Storing leftovers wisely keeps your dish fresh. Remember, you can adjust flavors and ingredients to suit your taste. This recipe is easy to customize, fun to share, and perfect for any gathering. Enjoy your delicious meal and impress your friends!

Crockpot Taco Casserole

A hearty and flavorful taco casserole made in a crockpot, perfect for busy days.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 6
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • 1 cup tortilla chips, crushed
  • 1 cup salsa
  • to taste optional toppings: sour cream, avocado, chopped cilantro, jalapeños

Instructions
 

  • In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
  • Transfer the cooked beef to the crockpot.
  • Add the black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and taco seasoning to the crockpot. Stir everything together until well combined.
  • Pour the salsa over the mixture and give it a gentle stir, making sure that the salsa is evenly distributed.
  • Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
  • About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the crushed tortilla chips and half of the shredded cheese.
  • Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, cover, and let it melt for about 15-20 minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve in bowls topped with sour cream, avocado, and cilantro for added freshness. Add jalapeños for extra heat if desired.
Keyword casserole, crockpot, dinner, easy, taco