Layered Cheesy Slow Cooker Mexican Casserole with Ground Beef
Ingredients
2 pounds ground beef, 80/20
1/2 cup onion, diced
½ cup bell pepper, diced (green)
2 teaspoons garlic , minced
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
2 cups beef broth
20 ounces tomatoes and green chilies, Two 10 oz cans, mild or spicy
15 ounces corn, can, whole kernel, drained
15 ounces black beans, can, rinsed and drained
15 ounces pinto beans, can, rinsed and drained
28 ounces red enchilada sauce, can
10 flour tortillas , medium-sized
16 ounces Queso Quesadilla, shredded
Directions
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned.
Use a wooden spoon or meat chopper like mine to break up the beef into small crumbles as it cooks. Turn off the heat and tip the pan so the grease drains to one side. Use a large spoon to remove it, or pour it out and use the spoon to keep the meat in the pan.
Next, use a few pieces of paper towel to absorb any excess fat. Return the pan to the heat. Add in the diced onion, green bell peppers, and minced garlic, and continue to cook until the onion is translucent.
Then, stir in taco seasoning and the beef broth.
Next, add the can of Rotel, corn, black beans, pinto beans, and red enchilada sauce and stir to combine.
Lightly grease the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray or an oiled paper towel to prevent sticking. If you prefer, you can use a slow cooker liner.
Cover the bottom of your slow cooker with 2 flour tortillas, ensuring they cover the entire surface (it’s fine if they overlap). Spread about a few spoons full of the beef mixture evenly over the tortillas.
Next, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the meat mixture.
Repeat the layering process. You should end up with about 5 layers. Do not put cheese on the top layer. We will do this in the last 15 minutes of cooking time.
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low heat for 4 hours before serving. I suggest you do not cook on high heat. The lower heat is better for melting and softening the tortilla shells.
During the last 15 minutes of cooking time, remove the lid and sprinkle some of the cheese on top. Replace the lid and finish cooking.
To serve, you can add toppings to your slow cooker and let your guests serve themselves. Or you can dish it out onto a serving platter or individual plates.
