This Taco Crock Pot Hashbrown Casserole is a fun and tasty dish! It mixes hashbrowns, taco seasoning, cheese, and beans, all cooked together in a cozy pot.
It’s perfect for busy days when you want something simple. Just throw everything in the pot and let it do its thing. I love to top mine with sour cream and green onions—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Turkey: I often use ground turkey for a healthier twist, but beef is great if you prefer richer flavor. For a vegetarian option, try using crumbled tofu or a plant-based meat substitute!
Black Beans: These add protein and fiber. If you’re out, kidney beans or pinto beans work well too. You could also use cooked lentils for an interesting texture.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: These bring spiciness to the dish. If you want less heat, choose plain diced tomatoes and add chili powder to taste instead. Fresh diced tomatoes also work.
Hashbrowns: Frozen is easiest, but you can use fresh potatoes. Just grate and briefly cook them before mixing. Sweet potatoes can make a tasty, healthier swap too!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the most flavor, but feel free to use Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra kick. Non-dairy cheese is a good substitute if you need it to be vegan.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and tang. Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you want more protein. For a dairy-free option, use coconut yogurt or a cashew cream.
How Do I Ensure My Hashbrowns Stay Tender?
Getting the hashbrowns just right is essential. The cooking method in the crock pot helps a lot, but there are some tips to keep them tender.
- Make sure your hashbrowns are completely thawed before adding them to the mix; this ensures even cooking.
- Don’t cook on high heat! Low is best for 4-6 hours, which helps them soften without overcooking.
- Spread out the mixture evenly in the crock pot for best heat distribution.
If you follow these steps, you’ll have tender and tasty hashbrowns in every bite! Enjoy your casserole.
How to Make Taco Crock Pot Hashbrown Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 1 package (30 oz) frozen hashbrowns, thawed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped cilantro
- Sliced green onions
- Additional sour cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Taco Crock Pot Hashbrown Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then cooks in the crock pot for 4 to 6 hours. Perfect for busy days when you want a tasty meal ready when you are!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Meat:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook it until it’s fully browned. Make sure to break it into small pieces as it cooks. If there’s any excess fat, drain it out to keep your casserole from being greasy.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a big mixing bowl, combine the cooked meat, rinsed black beans, undrained diced tomatoes, thawed hashbrowns, corn, taco seasoning, diced onion, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir so that all the ingredients are well mixed and evenly coated with the seasoning.
3. Transfer to the Crock Pot:
Now it’s time to transfer your tasty mixture into a greased crock pot. Spread it out evenly so it cooks nicely. Once that’s done, take a cup of shredded cheddar cheese and sprinkle it on top of the mixture.
4. Cook the Casserole:
Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. This will give the hashbrowns time to get tender and let all those flavors meld together. Just relax and let your crock pot do the work!
5. Add More Cheese:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the remaining cup of cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover it again and let the cheese melt into that delicious mix.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s cooked and the cheese is melty and bubbly, it’s time to serve! Dish out the warm casserole and add your favorite garnishes like chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream. Enjoy your savory meal!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can easily substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a healthier or vegetarian option. If you choose a leaner meat, just be mindful of the cooking time to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Hashbrowns?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes! Simply peel and dice about 2-3 medium potatoes into small cubes. Parboil them for about 5-7 minutes until slightly tender, then mix with the other ingredients. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly since fresh potatoes may take longer to cook through.
How to Store Leftovers
To store leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated evenly. If you made a larger batch, you could also freeze portions for later. Just ensure the casserole is cooled completely before freezing!
Can I Make This Casserole in Advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the entire casserole ahead of time and keep it covered in the fridge for up to a day before cooking. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the crock pot to ensure even cooking.
