There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty casserole on a busy weeknight, and this Easy Slow Cooker Taco Casserole delivers all the cozy comfort without any fuss. With layers of savory ground beef, tender beans, melty cheese, and a hint of spice, it’s like your favorite taco night rolled into one effortless dish. Perfect for family dinners, leftovers, or even meal prep, this recipe brings flavors everyone will love.
Recipe Info
| Category | Dinner |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 4 hours (low) |
| Servings | 6 |
| Calories | ~450 per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade mix)
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 cups crushed tortilla chips or corn chips
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Step‑By‑Step Instructions
- Brown the meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Sauté aromatics: Add diced onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened and fragrant.
- Combine in slow cooker: Transfer beef, onion, garlic, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, and salsa to the slow cooker. Stir until well combined.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4 hours (or high for 2 hours) until bubbly and flavorful.
- Add chips and cheese: About 20 minutes before serving, sprinkle crushed tortilla chips and cheeses on top. Cover and cook until cheese is melted.
- Garnish and serve: Top with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm, straight from the slow cooker.
Tip: For extra flavor, gently toast the crushed chips before adding.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Spice level: Adjust taco seasoning to taste. Add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in microwave or oven.
- Slow cooker size: A 4–6 qt slow cooker works best to avoid overflow.
Recipe Variations
- Protein swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or beef sausage instead of beef for a different flavor profile.
- Lighter option: Swap half the cheese for reduced-fat versions or use Greek yogurt as a topping.
- Veggie-packed: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of Spanish rice or Mexican-style quinoa.
- Add sliced avocado or guacamole on top for creamy richness.
- Pair with sour cream or lime wedges for extra zing.
Conclusion
This Easy Slow Cooker Taco Casserole is comfort food at its finest—warm, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It’s simple to make, perfect for busy weeknights, and guaranteed to bring smiles to the dinner table. Gather your loved ones, scoop out a generous portion, and enjoy every bite.