This Taco Crock Pot Hashbrown Casserole is a tasty twist on a classic dish! With layers of crispy hashbrowns, spicy taco flavor, and gooey cheese, it’s sure to please everyone.
It’s super easy to make; just throw everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic. I love serving it with some sour cream on top—nothing beats that combo! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Hashbrowns: These are the heart of this casserole. You can swap them with fresh potatoes, just make sure to dice them small and adjust the cooking time as fresh potatoes may take longer to become tender.
Ground Beef or Turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option, but if you’re looking for something with more flavor, stick to beef. You can also use ground chicken or plant-based meat for a vegetarian take!
Taco Seasoning: If you have your own blend of spices, feel free to use those! Common spices include cumin, paprika, and chili powder. This gives you a chance to customize the spice level too.
Cream of Chicken Soup: A creamy base is essential here. You can substitute with cream of mushroom for a different flavor or use a homemade creamy mixture of sour cream and broth if you’re looking for a healthier option.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilis: Any canned diced tomatoes work, but if you prefer a milder flavor, use plain diced tomatoes and add your desired amount of chili powder for kick.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella are great together, but feel free to mix it up! Pepper jack cheese adds extra spice, while a Mexican blend is perfect for a more authentic taco flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Hashbrowns Are Perfectly Cooked in the Slow Cooker?
Cooking hashbrowns in a crock pot is convenient, but timing is key for achieving the perfect texture. Make sure to follow these tips!
- Start with frozen hashbrowns; they hold up better during longer cooking times.
- Mix everything thoroughly to ensure even cooking—this includes incorporating the cream of chicken soup and diced tomatoes well.
- Cooking on low is best for texture, as it allows the flavors to meld without overcooking the potatoes. If time is short, high heat will work, just watch closely.
How to Make Taco Crock Pot Hashbrown Casserole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 pounds frozen hashbrowns (about 1 bag)
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cooks in the crock pot for 3 to 7 hours, depending on your desired cooking time. It’s super easy—just chop, mix, and let the crock pot do the work!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef or turkey and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked. This should take about 5-7 minutes. After it’s cooked, drain off any excess fat. This step is important to keep your casserole from being greasy!
2. Sauté the Onion:
Next, toss the chopped onion into the skillet with the meat. Sauté everything together for about 3-5 minutes or until the onion is soft and translucent. This adds a lovely flavor to the dish!
3. Season the Mixture:
Once the onion is ready, sprinkle in the taco seasoning. Stir it well with the meat and onion mix. Remove the skillet from the heat to let the flavors mingle.
4. Combine the Casserole Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen hashbrowns, cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes (make sure to include all the juices!), sour cream, and the meat mixture you just made. Give it a good stir until everything is evenly mixed together.
5. Season and Transfer:
Add salt and pepper to taste, mixing it in well. Then, carefully transfer this mixture to a greased crock pot, spreading it out so it’s even. This will help it cook nicely!
6. Cook in the Crock Pot:
Set your crock pot to low and let it cook for about 6-7 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can set it to high and cook for about 3-4 hours. You’re looking for the hashbrowns to be tender when it’s done!
7. Add the Cheese:
About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top of your casserole. Cover it up and let the cheese melt beautifully!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
When everything is ready, serve your casserole warm. You can top it with green onions, avocado, or any of your other favorite toppings. Enjoy the flavors and the satisfaction of a hearty meal!
Can I Use Fresh Hashbrowns Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh hashbrowns! If using fresh, reduce the cooking time slightly since they will cook faster. You may want to sauté them for a few minutes to soften them up before mixing them in with the other ingredients.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef or Turkey?
If you prefer a different protein, you can use ground chicken or even a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian option. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed, especially for lean meats like ground turkey.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire casserole a day in advance. Just assemble everything in the crock pot, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, set the crock pot to the desired cooking time and let it cook as instructed.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm them in a skillet over low heat until heated through. You can also add a splash of water to help moisten them if they seem dry.
