This Taco Crock Pot Hashbrown Casserole is a fun twist on comfort food! Packed with crispy hashbrowns, cheesy goodness, and a zesty taco flavor, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
Who wouldn’t love a dish that cooks slowly while you relax? I enjoy serving it with sour cream and some fresh salsa on top. It’s like a fiesta in a bowl! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef (or Turkey): I often use ground turkey for a lighter option, but beef adds rich flavor. Both are great; choose what you prefer! You could also use cooked shredded chicken for a different twist.
Taco Seasoning: A packet makes it easy, but making your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika is a fun alternative! It lets you adjust flavors to your liking.
Frozen Hashbrowns: These save time, but if you have fresh potatoes, just chop them into small cubes. They need to be cooked longer but taste delicious when fresh.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: This adds zesty flavor. If it’s too spicy for you, plain diced tomatoes work well. You can also add your own spices later for better control!
Cheddar Cheese: I always go for sharp cheddar for a bold taste. Feel free to try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a twist. Experimenting with different cheeses can be fun!
How Do I Get the Hashbrowns Perfectly Cooked in a Crock Pot?
Getting the hashbrowns cooked just right can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll be golden! Layering ingredients is key to even cooking in the Crock Pot.
- Start with half the frozen hashbrowns at the bottom. This way, they absorb flavors from the meat and veggies above.
- Make sure to push down on the layers gently to pack them slightly. This helps everything cook evenly.
- Keep the lid on while cooking to retain moisture and heat. Opening it too often can lengthen cooking time!
- Check at the end of the cooking time. If you find the hashbrowns need more time, you can always add another 30 minutes or so.
How to Make Taco Crock Pot Hashbrown Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen hashbrowns
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- sliced green onions
- jalapeños
- cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole requires about 20 minutes of prep time and needs to cook in the Crock Pot for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Perfect for a busy day when you want to come home to a warm, hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ground Meat:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook it until it’s nicely browned. If there’s excess fat, drain it off to keep your casserole from getting greasy. Stir in the taco seasoning and follow the instructions on the packet. Once mixed well, take it off the heat and set it aside.
2. Layer the Ingredients in the Crock Pot:
Grab your Crock Pot and start layering! Begin by pouring half of the frozen hashbrowns into the pot. Next, add the cooked meat mixture on top. Then, sprinkle the diced tomatoes (including the juice), followed by the corn, half of the shredded cheese, diced onions, diced bell pepper, and all the sour cream. Don’t forget to season everything with a pinch of salt and pepper!
3. Finish Layering:
Add the remaining hashbrowns over the top of your mixture. Pour in any leftover ingredients to make sure everything is covered and mixed well. Finally, sprinkle the rest of the shredded cheese evenly across the top for a cheesy finish!
4. Cook the Casserole:
Put the lid on your Crock Pot and set it to cook. If you’re short on time, choose the high setting and let it cook for 3-4 hours. Otherwise, set it to low and let it cook for 6-8 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the hashbrowns are nice and soft, and the cheese is all melted and bubbly!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s cooked, it’s time to dish it up! Serve your Taco Crock Pot Hashbrown Casserole hot, and feel free to add any toppings you like—sliced green onions, jalapeños, or fresh cilantro will all be great choices. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Fresh Hashbrowns Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh hashbrowns, but make sure they’re pre-cooked or partially cooked to ensure they cook through in the Crock Pot. You may want to sauté them in a skillet for a few minutes before layering them in the dish for the best texture.
What Can I Use Instead of Ground Beef?
If you prefer a different protein, ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat substitute like lentils or crumbled tofu work great! Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed and season well for flavor.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or in a skillet on low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems a bit dry.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until heated through, or reheat directly from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
