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Easy Crockpot Taco Casserole

This Easy Crockpot Taco Casserole recipe delivers a flavorful and satisfying Tex-Mex meal with minimal effort. By focusing on moisture control and strategic layering, this recipe avoids the common pitfalls of soggy casseroles, resulting in a delicious and easy-to-serve family favorite.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef 80/20 for flavor
  • 1 packet taco seasoning low sodium preferred
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • Optional toppings: shredded lettuce
  • Optional toppings: diced tomatoes
  • Optional toppings: sour cream
  • Optional toppings: guacamole

Equipment

  • 6-quart or larger slow cooker
  • large skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Spatula or spoon
  • knife
  • cutting board

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Meat: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease. Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until the liquid is mostly absorbed.
  2. Make the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  3. Layer the Casserole: Spread a thin layer of the ground beef mixture on the bottom of the slow cooker. Top with a layer of tortillas (cut or tear them to fit). Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the tortillas. Sprinkle with half of the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes and green chilies. Top with half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
  4. Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process: ground beef mixture, tortillas, remaining cream cheese mixture, remaining black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes and green chilies, and remaining cheddar cheese.
  5. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or on high for 1.5-2 hours, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tortillas are softened.
  6. Rest: Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to set up slightly.
  7. Serve: Top with your favorite taco toppings, such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and guacamole.

Notes

For best results, use slightly stale corn tortillas to prevent sogginess. If using fresh tortillas, lightly toast them before layering. Using low-sodium taco seasoning allows for better control of the salt level. The casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For a spicier casserole, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ground beef mixture.