This Crockpot Tex Mex Tater Tot Casserole is a fun, hearty dish! It mixes ground beef, beans, and cheese, all topped with crispy tater tots—yum!
You can’t help but smile when tater tots are involved, right? I love coming home to this warm, cheesy meal. Perfect for busy days when I just want to relax and enjoy my favorite comfort food!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: I’m a fan of ground beef for its flavor, but you can use ground turkey for a leaner option. Both work well with the spices.
Taco Seasoning: Pre-packaged taco seasoning is quick and easy. If you’re low on ingredients, mix chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder for a homemade version.
Black Beans: Canned black beans are a great convenience. If you’re avoiding beans, try using diced zucchini or bell peppers instead for extra veggies.
Diced Tomatoes: The tomatoes with green chilies add a nice kick. If you prefer milder flavors, opt for regular diced tomatoes and add a pinch of cayenne pepper later.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar gives that rich, gooey texture. Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend cheese can be great substitutes if you’re looking to mix things up.
How Do You Get the Perfect Layering in a Crockpot Casserole?
Layering is key for even cooking and flavor blending. Start with the meat layer at the bottom, as it needs to absorb the flavors from the beans and cheese.
- First, brown the meat and veggies, then drain excess fat.
- Spread the meat mixture evenly in the crockpot.
- Add beans, corn, and tomatoes in that order, ensuring they cover the meat.
- Top with cheese before placing the tater tots to keep them crispy.
- Lastly, cover with more cheese for a delicious melty top.
This method keeps everything balanced and comforting from the first bite to the last! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Crockpot Tex Mex Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 4-6 hours to cook on low or 2-3 hours on high in the crockpot. It’s simple and allows for a relaxing cooking experience while concentrating on your day’s activities!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Meat Mixture:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and let it cook, breaking it apart with a spatula. As it cooks, toss in the chopped onion and bell pepper (if you’re using it) and stir until everything is cooked through and the meat is no longer pink. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, drain any extra fat from the skillet.
2. Season the Meat:
Next, sprinkle in your taco seasoning to the meat mixture. Follow the packet’s instructions, which usually suggest adding some water. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, until it’s well combined and fragrant. This step adds all the delicious Tex Mex flavor!
3. Layer the Ingredients in the Crockpot:
Grab your crockpot and start by layering the bottom with the seasoned ground beef mixture. Spread it out evenly. On top of that, add the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Make sure everything is nicely spread out for the best flavor in every bite. Then, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top, creating a cheesy goodness layer.
4. Add the Tater Tots:
Now it’s time to add the fun part! Carefully arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer right over the cheese. This will form a crispy top later on! Once they are in place, sprinkle the remaining cheese over the tater tots. This will melt beautifully during cooking.
5. Cook it Up:
Cover your crockpot with its lid and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the tater tots are cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The aroma that fills the kitchen will make it hard to wait!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done cooking, carefully remove the lid (watch out for steam!) and let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Then, scoop out servings and enjoy your flavorful and hearty Tex Mex Tater Tot Casserole with family or friends. It’s perfect for gatherings or just a cozy night in!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Something Else?
Absolutely! You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, try using crumbled tempeh or an extra can of beans (like pinto or kidney beans) for added protein and texture!
What If I Don’t Have Taco Seasoning?
No worries! You can easily make your own taco seasoning at home. Combine 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use it in the same quantity as you would the packet of taco seasoning!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it; just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months!
Can I Add More Veggies to This Casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to add more chopped vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to the meat layer for extra nutrition. Just remember to sauté them first if they have a high water content to prevent the casserole from becoming too soggy.
