Description
Crock Pot Beefy Potato Taco Casserole
Ingredients
For the Base:
1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 packet taco seasoning
1/2 cup water
For the Potatoes:
4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cheesy Layer:
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions
Prepare the Beef:
In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened.
Stir in the taco seasoning and water, letting it simmer for 3-4 minutes. Set aside.
Season the Potatoes:
Toss the diced potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the Casserole:
Lightly grease your crock pot with non-stick spray.
Layer the seasoned potatoes on the bottom. Add the cooked ground beef mixture on top.
Add the Cheese:
Spread the sour cream evenly over the beef layer. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
Cook the Casserole:
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle fresh cilantro or green onions on top before serving. Enjoy with tortilla chips or a side salad!
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Total Time: ~7 hours
Servings: 4-6
#TacoCasserole #ComfortFood #CrockPotMeals
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect casserole every time. First, ensure your potatoes are diced uniformly (about 1/2-inch cubes) so they cook evenly. When browning the beef, drain any excess fat after cooking to prevent a greasy final dish. For the assembly, press the potato layer down gently to create a solid base. When adding the sour cream, dollop it in small spoonfuls over the beef and then spread carefully to avoid mixing the layers. Finally, resist the urge to open the lid frequently during cooking, as this releases heat and steam, significantly increasing cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a complete meal but can be elevated with simple sides. Serve it in bowls topped with fresh diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, a dollop of extra sour cream, or sliced avocado. For a crunchy contrast, offer a side of tortilla chips or a light, crisp green salad with a lime vinaigrette. It also makes an excellent filling for warm flour tortillas as a next-day leftover option.
How-to Summary
In summary: brown beef with onion and pepper, mix with taco seasoning. Toss diced potatoes with oil and spices. In a greased crock pot, layer potatoes, then the beef mixture. Top with sour cream and shredded cheeses. Cook on Low for 6-7 hours or High for 3-4 hours until potatoes are tender. Garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the entire casserole in the crock pot insert, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 30-60 minutes to the cooking time when starting from cold.
Can I use frozen potatoes? It’s not recommended. Frozen diced potatoes often contain added moisture and preservatives that can make the casserole watery and alter the texture of the final dish.
How do I know when the potatoes are fully cooked? The potatoes should be easily pierced with a fork. If they are still firm, continue cooking in 30-minute increments.
What can I use instead of sour cream? Plain Greek yogurt is an excellent 1:1 substitute, adding a similar tang and creaminess.
Is it possible to overcook this? Yes. Cooking too long, especially on high, can cause the potatoes to become mushy and the cheese to separate and become oily. Stick to the recommended times.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Uneven Potato Dicing: Large chunks will remain hard while small pieces turn to mush.
- Skipping the Searing: Browning the beef builds crucial flavor; don’t just add it raw.
- Over-stirring After Cooking: For the best layered presentation, serve directly from the pot without mixing.
- Using Pre-shredded Cheese with Anti-Caking Agents: These can prevent smooth melting. Shredding cheese from a block gives a superior, creamier result.
Conclusion
This Crock Pot Beefy Potato Taco Casserole is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it comfort food. It masterfully combines familiar taco flavors with the hearty satisfaction of potatoes and melted cheese. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a perfectly cooked, crowd-pleasing dish with minimal active effort. It’s a reliable recipe that promises a delicious and comforting dinner with ease.