Description
Hearty Crockpot Taco Casserole delivers a flavor explosion of Mexican-inspired comfort that sizzles with zesty spices and melted cheese. Families will savor this easy one-pot wonder that brings quick satisfaction to weeknight dinner tables.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 pounds (lb) ground beef
Vegetables and Beans:
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 ounces) Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
Seasoning and Dairy:
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 6 small flour tortillas (or corn tortillas)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and onions in a skillet, eliminating any accumulated fat for a cleaner base flavor.
- Infuse the meat mixture with robust taco seasoning, creating a zesty foundation, then incorporate tomato sauce, Rotel, black beans, and corn to build depth.
- Prepare the crockpot with a light cooking spray coating to prevent sticking.
- Create strategic layering by placing tortillas across the bottom, ensuring complete coverage of the pot’s base.
- Distribute the seasoned beef mixture evenly, allowing each layer to showcase the vibrant ingredients.
- Generously sprinkle shredded cheese between each layer, creating pockets of melty goodness throughout the casserole.
- Continue alternating tortillas, beef mixture, and cheese until all ingredients are integrated, culminating with a generous cheese topping.
- Secure the crockpot lid and slow-cook on low temperature for 4-5 hours, or accelerate the process on high setting for 2-3 hours.
- Allow the casserole to rest and settle for 5-10 minutes after cooking, enabling flavors to meld and texture to stabilize.
- Elevate the dish with a dollop of cool sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro just before serving, adding brightness and contrast.
Notes
- Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and create a healthier version of this comforting dish.
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter, diet-friendly alternative that still packs amazing flavor.
- Prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and refrigerate overnight to let the spices develop deeper, more complex taste profiles.
- Use corn tortillas instead of flour for a gluten-free option that adds a traditional Mexican texture and authentic crunch to the casserole.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (low) or 2 hours (high)
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg