Taco Beef and Hash Brown Casserole
A layered casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, crispy hash browns, zesty salsa, and melty cheese, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 1 lb ground beef Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- 1 packet taco seasoning This blend brings authentic taco flavor.
- 2 cups frozen hash browns Add delightful texture and heartiness.
- 2 cups salsa Provides a zesty kick and moisture.
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend) Melty cheese binds all layers together.
- 1/2 cup sour cream Enhances overall flavor.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional) Adds fresh flavor and color.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat a skillet over medium heat; add the ground beef and cook until browned, approximately 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked beef, stirring well to combine. Follow package instructions for flavor melding.
Layering
- In a slow cooker, layer half of the frozen hash browns at the bottom, followed by half of the cooked beef, a third of the salsa, and a third of the shredded cheese. Repeat until all ingredients are used, ensuring the last layer is cheese.
Cooking
- Spoon any remaining salsa over the top layer of cheese. Then dollop the sour cream on top.
- Cover the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 4-6 hours.
Serving
- Once cooked, remove the lid and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve warm.
Notes
Feel free to customize cheese or mix in black beans or corn for added nutrition. For a crunchy topping, sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Use fresh hash browns for quicker preparation if short on time.