Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious: Taco Frito Bean Crock Pot Casserole! This mouthwatering Mexican-inspired recipe combines the irresistible crunch of Frito corn chips with a savory blend of black beans, diced tomatoes, and melty cheese, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. Perfect for busy weeknights or a crowd-pleasing potluck, this casserole is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover why this dish is destined to become a family favorite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 3 hrs
Total Time: 3 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can Frito corn chips
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Prepare your slow cooker by lightly spraying the interior with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the drained and rinsed black beans with the diced tomatoes and taco seasoning. Mix thoroughly to ensure the beans and tomatoes are evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Layer the bottom of the crock pot with a portion of the Frito corn chips, creating a crunchy base for the casserole.
- Spread the seasoned bean and tomato mixture evenly over the Frito layer, ensuring complete coverage.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the bean mixture, creating a melty layer.
- Add another layer of Frito corn chips on top of the cheese.
- Cover the crock pot and set to cook on low heat for 3 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the cheese to become fully melted.
- During the last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top to create a golden, bubbly cheese layer.
- Once cooking is complete, turn off the crock pot and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnishing each portion with a dollop of sour cream on top.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or additional crushed Fritos for extra crunch.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the bean and tomato mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld even more before cooking.
- Layering is Key: Make sure to layer the ingredients carefully. Start with a solid base of Fritos, followed by the seasoned mixture and cheese, to ensure every bite is a perfect balance of crunch and creaminess.
- Cheese Lovers Unite: Feel free to mix different types of cheese! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack can add a unique twist to the flavor profile.
- Customize Your Heat: If you like it spicy, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the bean mixture for an extra kick.
- Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking helps it set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors.
- Garnish for Flair: Don’t skip the garnishes! A dollop of sour cream, fresh cilantro, or additional crushed Fritos can elevate the presentation and taste of your dish.
- Leftover Magic: This casserole reheats beautifully, making it a perfect option for leftovers. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy it throughout the week!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 45mg
