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

Avocado slices, for garnish

Sour cream, for garnish

Diced tomatoes, for garnish

Fresh chopped cilantro, for garnish

Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Spray a 6-quart (or larger) crockpot with nonstick spray and set aside.

Step 2: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 7–10 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease.

Step 3: Stir in diced onions, taco seasoning, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, and salsa. Let cook together for 2–5 minutes to blend flavors.

Step 4: Transfer the meat mixture to the bottom of the crockpot. Add half of the tortilla chips and 1 cup of the shredded cheese, then gently stir to combine.

Step 5: Cover and cook on HIGH for 2 hours.

Step 6: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese over the top. Cover and cook on LOW for another 20–30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and gooey.

Step 7: Garnish with avocado slices, sour cream, diced tomatoes, cilantro, and lime wedges. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a diced jalapeño with the onions or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the beef.

To make it vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with diced mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative.

Serve with warm flour tortillas or over cooked rice for a different twist.

Use sharp cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a different cheesy flavor.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole without a crockpot?

Yes, you can assemble the ingredients in a baking dish and bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes, until heated through and cheese is melted.

Can I use spicy taco seasoning instead of mild?

Absolutely! Using spicy taco seasoning will give the casserole more heat, so adjust toppings like sour cream or avocado accordingly to balance the spice.