Crockpot Taco Casserole

Created on November 4th, 2025 at 10:19 am

A hearty blend of flavors, cooked low and slow

Crockpot Taco Casserole is a comforting, one-pot dish that brings the flavors of your favorite tacos into the warm, inviting embrace of a casserole. This recipe features tender ground beef, black beans, zesty tomatoes, and vibrant bell peppers, all simmered together until melded in flavor. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, hinting at the delicious meal waiting ahead. Topped with cheese that melts beautifully, this casserole offers a delightful combination of textures — from the softness of the beans to the crunchy hints of tortilla chips.

This dish is not only satisfying but also practical. Preparing it requires minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Just set it and forget it, allowing the slow cooker to do the work while you attend to other tasks. The Crockpot Taco Casserole is sure to become a weeknight favorite for families and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The beauty of Crockpot Taco Casserole lies in its simplicity and flavor complexity. As it cooks, the ingredients release fragrant notes that blend harmoniously. The ground beef becomes tender, soaking in the spices and juices of the dish, while the fresh peppers add a touch of crunch and sweetness. It is a straightforward recipe that can be adapted to suit individual tastes. Whether you prefer your tacos spicy or mild, the options are endless.

This casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd but also delicious when enjoyed as leftovers. The flavors deepen and improve on the second day, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. You can enjoy it on its own, or serve it alongside a light salad for a balanced meal.

Time Breakdown

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients List

• 1 lb (≈450 g) ground beef
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (no added sugar)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
• 1 packet taco seasoning (≈1 oz)
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 small corn tortillas, cut into strips
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• Optional: sliced jalapeños for heat
• Optional: fresh cilantro for garnish

Kitchen Tools

Cooking this casserole is straightforward with just a few essentials. Embrace the ease of slow cooking to produce a comforting meal with minimal fuss.

• Crockpot
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups
• Stirring spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Begin by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Cook until browned, draining any excess grease, about 5-7 minutes. The sizzling sound and golden color of the meat will complement the other ingredients beautifully.
2. In the bottom of the crockpot, combine the diced onion, bell pepper, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Stir everything together until evenly distributed, creating a colorful base.
3. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the mixture, ensuring everything is well-coated. Add the cooked ground beef and stir gently to combine all the elements, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
4. Layer the corn tortilla strips on top of the mixture. The strips will soften and absorb flavors as they cook, contributing to the casserole’s texture.
5. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours. As it cooks, the aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist.
6. When ready to serve, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Recover for about 5-10 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt into a gooey, inviting layer.

Pro Tips

• For a spicier variation, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
• If you’re short on time, you can use cooked rotisserie chicken in place of ground beef.
• Customize your casserole with additional vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
• Serve with sour cream or guacamole for a delightful contrast.
• This casserole freezes well, so consider preparing a double batch for later enjoyment.

Comfort Made Simple

Crockpot Taco Casserole is a delightful dish that fuses convenience with comfort. Its layers of flavor offer a satisfying meal that brings everyone to the table. The simplicity of preparation, combined with the hearty ingredients, makes this a wonderful addition to any weekly rotation. You’ll find that this dish proves that gourmet comfort can be simple and satisfying.

Nutrition Table

Nutrient	Amount (per serving)
Calories	340 kcal
Protein	25 g
Fat	15 g
Carbohydrates	30 g
Fiber	6 g
Sugar	3 g
Sodium	550 mg

Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.