Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 package mild taco seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 15-oz can mild red enchilada sauce
- 1 15-oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 15-oz can corn kernels, drained
- 1 cup chunky salsa
- 6 ounces corn tortilla chips, divided
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend, divided
Toppings
- Avocado slices
- Sour cream
- Diced tomatoes
- Fresh chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Crockpot: Spray a 6-quart (or larger) crockpot with nonstick spray and set it aside to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it for 7 to 10 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks, until browned. Drain any excess grease to ensure a leaner dish.
- Add Seasonings and Mix-ins: Stir in the diced onion, taco seasoning, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, and salsa into the cooked beef. Let this mixture cook together for 2 to 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Layer in the Crockpot: Transfer the beef mixture into the crockpot. Add half of the corn tortilla chips and 1 cup of the shredded Mexican cheese blend, then gently stir to combine everything evenly.
- Cook on High: Cover the crockpot and cook on HIGH heat for 2 hours to fully meld the flavors and heat the casserole through.
- Add Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese on top of the casserole. Cover and continue cooking on LOW for 20 to 30 minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.
- Garnish and Serve: Top the casserole with avocado slices, a dollop of sour cream, diced tomatoes, fresh chopped cilantro, and lime wedges to add fresh, bright flavors. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For a spicier version, use medium or hot taco seasoning and salsa.
- To make it vegetarian, replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or extra beans.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.
- Use gluten-free tortilla chips to make this casserole gluten-free.
- Adding extra veggies like bell peppers or jalapeños can boost flavor and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican