Taco Hashbrown Casserole in the Crock Pot Recipe

 

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound Ground Beef
  • 1 packet Taco Seasoning
  • 1 Onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 package (30 oz) Frozen Hashbrowns
  • 1 can (10 oz) Diced Tomatoes and Green Chiles, drained
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) Cheddar Cheese Soup
  • 1 cup Sour Cream
  • 2 cups Shredded Cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • Salt and Pepper, to taste
  • Optional toppings: Sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, sliced olives, jalapeños, and cilantro

Instructions:

  1. Cook Taco Seasoned Ground Beef:
    • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with taco seasoning, chopped onion, and minced garlic until the beef is browned. Drain excess fat.
  2. Layer in the Crock Pot:
    • In the crock pot, layer half of the frozen hashbrowns at the bottom.
  3. Add Taco Seasoned Beef:
    • Spread half of the cooked taco-seasoned ground beef over the hashbrowns.
  4. Layer with Tomatoes and Chiles:
    • Sprinkle the drained diced tomatoes and green chiles over the beef layer.
  5. Pour Cheddar Cheese Soup:
    • Pour the cheddar cheese soup evenly over the tomatoes and chiles layer.
  6. Spread Sour Cream:
    • Dollop the sour cream over the soup layer, spreading it out evenly.
  7. Add Shredded Cheese:
    • Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the sour cream layer.
  8. Repeat Layers:
    • Repeat the layers by adding the remaining hashbrowns, followed by the remaining taco-seasoned ground beef, and the rest of the shredded cheese.
  9. Season and Cook:
    • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
    • Cover and cook on HIGH for 2 hours or LOW for 4 hours, or until the hashbrowns are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  10. Serve and Garnish:
    • Once cooked, serve the taco hashbrown casserole hot.
    • Garnish with optional toppings like sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, sliced olives, jalapeños, and fresh cilantro.
  11. Enjoy!
    • Dish out and savor the delicious flavors of this super simple and tasty Taco Hashbrown Casserole. 🌮🥔😋

Feel free to customize the toppings and ingredients according to your taste preferences!

  1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
    • Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef to make a leaner version of the casserole.
  2. Is there a substitute for cheddar cheese soup?
    • If you can’t find cheddar cheese soup, you can use cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup as an alternative.
  3. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?
    • Yes, you can use peeled and grated fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns. Ensure they are evenly spread in the layers.
  4. How can I make it spicier?
    • Increase the heat by using a spicier taco seasoning, adding jalapeños, or using a can of diced tomatoes and green chiles with added spice.
  5. Can I prepare this ahead of time and refrigerate it before cooking?
    • Yes, you can assemble the layers in the crock pot ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate. Cook it when you’re ready, adding a little extra cooking time if needed.
  6. What size crock pot should I use?
    • A 4 to 6-quart crock pot works well for this recipe. Adjust the quantities if you have a larger crock pot.
  7. Can I freeze leftovers?
    • Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to three months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
  8. What toppings work best with this casserole?
    • Toppings like sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, sliced olives, jalapeños, and fresh cilantro work well. Customize based on your preferences.
  9. Can I add beans or corn to the casserole?
    • Absolutely! Black beans or corn can be added to enhance the flavor and add texture to the casserole.
  10. How do I prevent the hashbrowns from becoming soggy?
    • Ensure the frozen hashbrowns are well-drained before layering them in the crock pot. This helps prevent excess moisture.
  11. Can I use a different type of cheese?
    • Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses or a blend of cheeses for varied flavor profiles.

Feel free to adapt these FAQs based on your audience or add any additional questions you think might be relevant!