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Crockpot Taco Casserole – A Flavor-Packed, Family-Friendly One-Pot Dinner

If you love the bold flavors of tacos but want the ease of a one-pot meal, this Crockpot Taco Casserole will be your new weeknight hero. It combines tender beef or turkey, beans, corn, rice, and plenty of taco seasoning, all slow-cooked together under a melty layer of cheese. The result? A hearty, cheesy, and flavor-packed dish that feels like a Tex-Mex feast in casserole form. This recipe is perfect for busy families, meal prep, or feeding a crowd. Just set it, forget it, and enjoy a comforting dinner with minimal cleanup.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 portions
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Protein
  • 1 ½ lbs lean ground beef or ground turkey
Vegetables
  • 1 onion diced
  • 1 bell pepper chopped
  • 1 cup corn kernels fresh, canned, or frozen
Beans & Rice
  • 1 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup uncooked rice long-grain or jasmine
Liquids & Base
  • 2 cups beef or chicken broth
  • 1 15 oz can diced tomatoes with green chilies
Seasoning
  • 2 tbsp taco seasoning homemade or store-bought
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt & pepper to taste
Toppings
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Sliced green onions
  • Diced avocado or tomatoes

Equipment

  • 6-quart slow cooker (Crockpot)
  • Skillet (for browning meat)
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

Step 1: In a skillet, cook ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned, about 6–7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
    Step 2: Transfer cooked meat to the slow cooker. Add onion, bell pepper, corn, black beans, rice, diced tomatoes, broth, taco seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
      Step 3: Cover and cook on Low for 5–6 hours or High for 2–3 hours, until rice is tender and flavors are blended.
        Step 4: In the last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Cover and let it melt into a gooey topping.
          Step 5: Garnish with cilantro, green onions, or avocado before serving.
            Step 6: Serve hot with tortilla chips, salsa, or a side salad.

              Notes

              🧊 Storage & Reheating
              Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
              Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
              Reheating: Warm in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
              🥄 Variations
              Veggie Version: Skip the meat and double the beans for a vegetarian casserole.
              Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or extra chili powder.
              Creamy Style: Stir in ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving.
              Low-Carb Swap: Replace rice with cauliflower rice (reduce liquid slightly).
              Different Protein: Try shredded chicken or ground chicken instead of beef/turkey.
              ❓ 10 FAQs
              1. Can I use brown rice instead of white?
              Yes, but it takes longer to cook—add 1 extra cup broth and cook on low for 6–7 hours.
              2. Do I need to cook the meat first?
              Yes, browning adds flavor and prevents excess grease.
              3. Can I use canned corn instead of frozen?
              Yes, just drain it before adding.
              4. How do I make homemade taco seasoning?
              Mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and salt.
              5. Can I add more veggies?
              Absolutely—zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms work well.
              6. What kind of cheese works best?
              Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend.
              7. Can I double the recipe?
              Yes, but use a larger slow cooker (7–8 quarts).
              8. Will this work in an Instant Pot?
              Yes, cook on high pressure for 7 minutes with a quick release.
              9. Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
              Yes, it freezes beautifully in meal-size portions.
              10. What should I serve with it?
              Tortilla chips, salsa, guacamole, or a fresh salad.
              🏁 Conclusion
              This Crockpot Taco Casserole is the ultimate weeknight dinner—flavorful, filling, and easy to make. With tender rice, savory meat, melty cheese, and all the Tex-Mex flavors you love, it’s a family-friendly dish that also works great for meal prep. Set it in the morning, and by dinnertime, you’ve got a warm, cheesy casserole ready to serve.