Slow Cooker Taco Casserole

Cooking delicious meals doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. One standout dish that marries simplicity with flavor is the taco casserole, a hearty meal that can be easily prepared in a crockpot.

This taco casserole is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create this mouthwatering dish.

Ingredients

Before you begin, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of ground beef
• 1/2 cup of diced yellow onion
• 1 teaspoon of minced garlic
• Corn tortillas (about 9 total)
• 1/2 cup of tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup of chicken broth (or beef broth, if you prefer)
• 1 can (10 ounces) of red enchilada sauce
• 1/2 cup of shredded cheese (fiesta blend or your choice)
• 1 can (15.25 ounces) of black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 can (15.25 ounces) of Mexican-style corn (with red and green bell peppers)
• 2-4 ounces of green chilies (adjust to your preferred heat level)
• 1 can (2.25 ounces) of sliced black olives (divided)
• Optional toppings: Mexican-style sour cream, cilantro, avocado, guacamole, jalapenos

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ground Beef

1. Brown the Ground Beef: Begin by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add Diced Onion and Garlic: As the beef cooks, add 1/2 cup of diced yellow onion and 1 teaspoon of minced garlic to the skillet. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
3. Drain the Grease: Once the beef is browned and the onions are translucent, drain any excess grease from the skillet to avoid a greasy casserole.

Layering the Casserole

1. Prepare the Crock Pot: Spray your crockpot generously with oil or use non-stick cooking spray to ensure easy cleanup.
2. Layer Corn Tortillas: Place three corn tortillas at the bottom of the crockpot. It’s okay if they break; they’ll still form a solid base.
3. Season the Beef: Add your homemade or store-bought taco seasoning to the browned beef. Stir well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.

Assembling the Casserole

1. First Layer: Add the seasoned ground beef on top of the corn tortillas.
2. Tomato Sauce and Broth: Pour 1/2 cup of tomato sauce and 1/2 cup of chicken or beef broth over the beef.
3. Enchilada Sauce: Pour one can (10 ounces) of red enchilada sauce over the mixture.
4. Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded cheese over the enchilada sauce.

Adding More Layers

1. Second Layer of Tortillas: Place three more tortillas on top of the cheese.
2. Beans and Vegetables: Add your choice of drained and rinsed beans, spreading them out evenly. Then, add a can of Mexican-style corn and green chilies. Adjust the amount of green chilies based on your heat preference.
3. Black Olives: Add half of the sliced black olives on top.

Final Layers

1. More Cheese: Add another 1/2 cup of shredded cheese on top of the beans and vegetables.
2. Top Layer of Tortillas: Place three more tortillas on top.
3. Final Toppings: Add the remaining black olives and another layer of cheese.

Cooking the Casserole

1. Cover and Cook: Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on high for 2-3 hours or on low for 5-6 hours. The goal is to melt the cheese and allow the flavors to blend together.
2. Final Touches: During the last 30 minutes of cooking, uncover the crockpot to let any excess liquid evaporate and let the top layer set.

Serving the Taco Casserole

1. Plating: Once the cooking time is up, turn off the crockpot and let the casserole set for a few minutes before serving. This will make it easier to cut and serve.
2. Optional Toppings: Add a dollop of Mexican-style sour cream that has been well-shaken if it has been sitting in the refrigerator. Sprinkle some cilantro, add slices of avocado or a scoop of guacamole, and, if you like a bit more heat, add some chopped jalapenos.

Final Thoughts

This taco casserole recipe is not only delicious but also highly adaptable. You can customize the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you prefer beef, chicken, or a vegetarian version, this versatile dish can accommodate any changes.

Moreover, making homemade taco seasoning allows you to control the salt and spice levels, ensuring a healthier and more personalized flavor. The convenience of using a crockpot means you can set it and forget it, making it an ideal meal for busy individuals or families.

The next time you’re in the mood for a hearty and flavorful meal, give this crockpot taco casserole a try. Your taste buds will thank you!