Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced into small cubes
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or use homemade seasoning)
- 1 can (14 oz/400g) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1-2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Mexican blend, or your choice)
- Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped green onions, sliced jalapeños, salsa, guacamole, etc.
Instructions:
- Brown the Ground Beef:
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Prepare the Crock Pot:
- Lightly grease the inside of your crock pot to prevent sticking.
- Layering in the Crock Pot:
- Place the browned ground beef at the bottom of the crock pot.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the ground beef.
- Add Potatoes and Tomatoes:
- Add the diced potatoes on top of the seasoned ground beef.
- Pour the can of diced tomatoes (undrained) over the potatoes.
- Mixing Ingredients:
- Gently mix the ingredients in the crock pot to distribute the seasoning and tomatoes evenly. Make sure the potatoes are well coated with the seasoning.
- Cooking in the Crock Pot:
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 4-5 hours, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally if possible to ensure even cooking.
- Adding Cheese:
- About 15-20 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Cover the crock pot again and let it cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Once the cheese is melted, the casserole is ready to serve. You can garnish with optional toppings like sour cream, green onions, jalapeños, salsa, or guacamole, according to your preference.
- Enjoy:
- Scoop out servings of the Beefy Potatoes Taco Casserole onto plates or bowls and enjoy your delicious and hearty meal!
This Crock Pot Beefy Potatoes Taco Casserole is a flavorful and filling dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Enjoy your meal!
1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
- Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef in this recipe if you prefer a leaner option.
2. How do I store leftovers?
- Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
3. Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and layer them in the crock pot a day ahead. Store the assembled crock pot insert in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook it. Simply place it in the crock pot and follow the cooking instructions when you’re ready to make the meal.
4. What can I serve with this casserole?
- This casserole is quite hearty on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or warm tortillas to complete the meal.
5. Can I freeze this casserole?
- Yes, you can freeze this casserole for up to 2-3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight, freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until heated through.
6. Can I adjust the level of spiciness?
- Absolutely! You can adjust the spiciness by using mild, medium, or hot taco seasoning, depending on your preference. Additionally, you can add or reduce the amount of diced tomatoes with green chilies to control the heat.
7. Can I make this recipe in a regular oven instead of a crock pot?
- Yes, you can bake this casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 40-50 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Cover the casserole with foil during the first half of the baking time to prevent excessive browning.
8. Is this recipe gluten-free?
- To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure that the taco seasoning mix you’re using is gluten-free. Many commercial seasoning mixes contain gluten, so it’s essential to check the labels or use a homemade gluten-free taco seasoning blend.
Enjoy your cooking! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask.
