Do Share Recipe

Taco Crock Pot Hashbrown Casserole Recipe | Easy & Cheesy

I have to tell you, the first time I made this Taco Crock Pot Hashbrown Casserole recipe, it completely wowed me. It’s the ultimate comfort food—warm, cheesy, and packed with flavor. What I love most is how easy it is to toss all the ingredients together and let the crock pot do its magic.

Whether it’s for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe never disappoints. Plus, if you enjoy casseroles, you might also like the Chicken Pot Pie Casserole Recipe for another hearty option. Leftovers reheat wonderfully for lunch the next day, which is a huge win in my book.

Ingredients Section

Here’s what you’ll need to make this hearty casserole:

ground beef – I prefer lean ground beef, but you can swap with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Cooking it until fully browned ensures great flavor.
low-sodium taco seasoning – Using low-sodium lets you control the salt, especially since the soups already add some. Homemade seasoning works great too.
water – Helps the taco seasoning blend evenly into the meat.
Ore-Ida diced hash brown frozen potatoes – The small diced variety gives the perfect texture. Shredded potatoes can be used if you prefer a softer texture.
condensed cheddar cheese soup – Adds creamy cheesiness. You could substitute it with cream of chicken or homemade versions.
Mexican shredded cheese – I love freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavor.
sour cream – Gives creaminess; can substitute with Greek yogurt or cream cheese if you like a tangy twist.
salsa – Mild salsa works well for families; spicy can add an extra kick.

Note: This recipe makes about 6-8 servings, perfect for family meals or leftovers. You can also try similar comfort dishes like the Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken and Rice Recipe for a creamy, satisfying dinner.

Variations

To make this casserole fit your taste or dietary needs, try these alternatives:

Dairy-free: Use dairy-free cheese and sour cream alternatives.
Extra protein: Add black beans or corn for a heartier dish.
Flavor boost: Mix in diced green chilies or a pinch of smoked paprika.
Low-carb: Swap hash browns with cauliflower rice for a lighter version.

Cooking Time

Here’s the time you’ll spend on this dish:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours (slow cooker)
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes – 6 hours 15 minutes

Equipment You Need

crock pot – For slow-cooking all ingredients evenly.
skillet – To brown the meat and mix in taco seasoning.
spatula – For stirring ingredients together.
measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate quantities for perfect flavor.

How to Make Taco Crock Pot Hashbrown Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Meat

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Break it into small pieces and cook for about 7 minutes until the juices run clear. Drain excess fat for a lighter casserole.

Step 2: Add Seasoning

Sprinkle taco seasoning over the cooked meat and add water. Let it simmer for 2 minutes so the flavors meld together nicely before transferring to the crock pot.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot

Add the diced potatoes, cheddar soup, 1 cup of shredded cheese, sour cream, and salsa to the slow cooker. Mix everything until fully combined for an even flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Cook

Top with the remaining cheese and cover. Cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 4-6 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted to perfection.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with parsley or your favorite toppings before serving. This adds a pop of color and a fresh taste to the creamy casserole.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

From my experience, a few tweaks can really enhance this dish:

I always use freshly grated cheese for the best melt.
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to firm up slightly.
Taste and adjust salt after cooking, as the soups can add a lot of salt.
I like to add a few dashes of hot sauce for an extra zing.

How to Serve Taco Crock Pot Hashbrown Casserole Recipe

This dish is a meal on its own, but you can elevate it with:

A side salad or steamed vegetables for added freshness.
Topping with avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream for visual appeal.
Serving in a shallow bowl to show off the cheesy layers.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough estimate of what you’ll get per serving:

Calories: 350-400
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 22g

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing

Transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Place leftovers in a freezer-safe container, remove excess air, and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why this casserole is a winner:

Super easy to make with minimal prep.
Family-friendly and perfect for weeknight dinners.
Flexible for dietary needs and ingredient swaps.
Hearty, cheesy, and packed with flavor in every bite.
Leftovers reheat beautifully, saving time on busy days.

This Taco Crock Pot Hashbrown Casserole has quickly become one of my go-to recipes. It’s comforting, filling, and so easy to make that even busy weeknights can feel special.

Ben Carraoli