Looking for a crowd-pleasing, no-fuss dinner that delivers bold flavor and cheesy comfort in every bite? This Crockpot Taco Casserole is the ultimate easy weeknight meal. Made with layers of seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, salsa, tortillas, and plenty of cheese, it’s everything you love about taco night—served casserole-style!
It’s budget-friendly, hands-off, and easy to customize with your favorite taco toppings. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or feeding a hungry family, this slow cooker taco casserole is a guaranteed hit. Just layer it, cook it, and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen or canned corn (drained)
- 1 cup salsa (mild or spicy)
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend), divided
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas, cut into quarters
- ½ cup sour cream (optional, for creamy layer)
- Optional toppings: green onions, chopped tomatoes, jalapeños, sour cream, cilantro
Preparation:
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion until fully browned. Drain excess grease, then add minced garlic and taco seasoning. Stir and cook for 1 more minute.
Step 2: Build the Sauce
- Stir in black beans, corn, salsa, and Rotel. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes to combine flavors, then remove from heat.
Step 3: Layer in the Crockpot
Lightly grease the inside of a 6-quart crockpot. Begin layering ingredients:
- Spread a few spoonfuls of the beef mixture on the bottom.
- Add a layer of tortilla pieces to cover.
- Spread more beef mixture on top, then sprinkle with cheese.
- Optional: add dollops of sour cream between layers for creaminess.
Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of meat sauce and a final sprinkle of cheese on top.
Step 4: Cook
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2.5–3 hours, until bubbly and hot throughout. The tortillas should be soft and the cheese melted.
Step 5: Serve
- Let the casserole rest for 10–15 minutes to set before slicing. Garnish with fresh toppings and serve warm.
Variation:
- Add rice: Mix in 1 cup cooked rice with the beef for a heartier dish.
- Spicy version: Use hot salsa, pepper jack cheese, and add jalapeños.
- Vegetarian: Skip the beef and double the beans and corn.
- Chicken option: Use cooked shredded chicken instead of ground beef.
- Tortilla chips: Use crushed tortilla chips instead of tortillas for extra crunch.
COOKING Note:
Flour tortillas create a softer texture, while corn tortillas hold up better in the slow cooker. For a firmer casserole, cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes if your crockpot allows. Be sure to drain any excess liquid from beans, corn, and Rotel to avoid sogginess.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side salad: A crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette balances the richness.
- Mexican rice: Serve alongside for a complete Tex-Mex feast.
- Guacamole and chips: A classic taco night combo.
- Lime wedges: Brighten up the flavor with a squeeze of lime.
Tips:
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melt and flavor.
- Prep ingredients the night before and layer in the crockpot in the morning.
- Let it cool slightly before serving to slice neatly.
- Leftovers reheat beautifully—perfect for meal prep!
⏱️ Time Overview:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 4–5 hours on LOW or 2.5–3 hours on HIGH
- Total Time: ~5 hours
🍽️ Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: ~480
- Protein: ~28g
- Carbohydrates: ~32g
- Fat: ~28g
- Sodium: ~890mg
- Fiber: ~5g
- Sugar: ~4g
Values vary by ingredient brand and quantities used.
❓FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
- Yes! Assemble all layers in the crockpot insert and refrigerate overnight. Cook the next day as directed.
Do I have to use tortillas?
- Tortillas give it a lasagna-like texture, but you can use tortilla chips or even cooked pasta as a fun twist.
Can I freeze this casserole?
- It freezes well. Cool completely, slice into portions, and freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
What size crockpot works best?
- A 6-quart slow cooker is ideal for this layered casserole.
Can I use leftover taco meat?
- Yes! It’s a great way to use up leftover taco night ingredients.
Conclusion:
This Crockpot Taco Casserole is everything you love about tacos—layered up into a cheesy, hearty, slow-cooked meal. It’s an effortless dinner idea that’s big on flavor and totally satisfying. Just toss everything into your crockpot, let it work its magic, and enjoy a no-stress meal that tastes like a fiesta in every bite.
Great for families, potlucks, or even make-ahead freezer meals, this taco casserole is a go-to recipe you’ll turn to again and again.