Slow Cooker Taco Casserole Recipe
This Slow Cooker Taco Casserole combines seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and colorful bell peppers slow-cooked to perfection and topped with melted cheddar cheese for a deliciously hearty and easy meal ideal for busy weeknights.
- Author: Cara
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Meat
- 1 lb lean ground beef (80/20)
Seasoning
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade)
Vegetables & Beans
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers (mix of colors)
Dairy
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Brown the beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until fully browned. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from being greasy.
- Add seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for an additional minute to incorporate the flavors evenly into the beef.
- Combine ingredients in slow cooker: Transfer the cooked beef into the slow cooker. Add the rinsed black beans, corn kernels, diced tomatoes, and chopped bell peppers. Mix everything thoroughly to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Slow cook the casserole: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours. This allows all the ingredients to meld together and develop rich flavors.
- Add cheese topping: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and let the cheese melt into a gooey, delicious layer.
- Serve: Dish out the casserole hot, and optionally top with sour cream, fresh cilantro, or any preferred taco toppings for added flavor and freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce before slow cooking.
- Serve with tortilla chips or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated easily.
Keywords: taco casserole, slow cooker recipes, ground beef casserole, easy weeknight dinner, Mexican casserole