Taco Hashbrown Casserole in the Crock Pot: Super Simple and So Delicious
If you’re looking for an easy and tasty weeknight dinner idea, look no further than this Taco Hashbrown Casserole cooked in your crock pot. This dish is bursting with flavor and requires only a handful of ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes and green chiles
- 1 can cheddar cheese soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 bag frozen hashbrowns
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Instructions:
- Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic and continue cooking until the meat is fully cooked and the onions are translucent.
- Once the meat is cooked, add the taco seasoning and mix well to coat the meat.
- In your crock pot, add the browned meat, frozen hashbrowns, diced tomatoes and green chiles, cheddar cheese soup, and sour cream. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the mixture in the crock pot.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on high for 2 hours or on low for 4 hours, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once the cooking time is up, serve the Taco Hashbrown Casserole hot, garnished with some fresh cilantro and diced avocado if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier version, add a diced jalapeño pepper to the meat mixture before cooking.
- You can also add some corn or black beans to the casserole for extra texture and flavor.
- If you prefer a crispier texture, transfer the casserole to a baking dish and bake in the oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
In conclusion, this Taco Hashbrown Casserole is a perfect meal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. It’s easy to make and tastes delicious, with all the flavors of a classic taco in a comforting casserole form. So give this recipe a try and enjoy the cheesy, satisfying goodness!
Here are some additional tips and tricks to ensure that your Taco Hashbrown Casserole in the crock pot turns out perfectly:
- Use lean ground beef: For a healthier option, use lean ground beef instead of regular ground beef. This will reduce the amount of fat in the dish while still providing plenty of flavor.
- Customize the seasoning: You can adjust the amount of taco seasoning to your liking or even use a homemade blend of spices if you prefer. Feel free to experiment with different spice combinations to create your own signature flavor.
- Choose the right cheese: While cheddar cheese works great in this recipe, you can also try using other varieties such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend of cheeses. These will add some extra flavor and creaminess to the casserole.
- Add some veggies: If you want to up the nutritional value of this dish, you can add some diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the mix. This will add some extra flavor and texture to the casserole while also boosting its nutritional content.
- Let it rest: Once the casserole is cooked, it’s important to let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the cheese to set up a bit, making it easier to serve and enjoy.
By following these tips and tricks, you can make the perfect Taco Hashbrown Casserole in the crock pot every time. This dish is sure to become a family favorite, and it’s easy enough to make that you can enjoy it any day of the week. So go ahead and give this recipe a try, and let the crock pot do all the work for you!