Gluten-Free Slow Cooker Beef Taco Casserole
A hearty one-pot dinner featuring seasoned ground beef layered with corn tortilla strips and melted cheddar cheese. The slow cooking process melds the taco flavors while keeping the tortillas tender but not mushy. Perfect for busy weeknight family dinners or casual gatherings where you want comfort food without the fuss. The cream of onion soup base creates a rich, creamy sauce that binds everything together, while green chilies add just the right amount of heat.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of onion soup
- 1 packet (1 oz) Old El Paso Original Taco Seasoning Mix
- ½ cup water
- 6 corn tortillas (5 or 6 inches in diameter), cut into 1/2-inch strips
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (4 ounces)
- 3 medium green onions, sliced (3 tablespoons)
- ½ cup sour cream
Instructions
- 1
Cook ground beef in skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until brown then drain
- 2
Mix beef, tomatoes, soup, seasoning mix and water in slow cooker
- 3
Gently stir in tortilla strips
- 4
Cover and cook on Low heat setting
- 5
Sprinkle cheese over casserole, cover and let stand until cheese melts
- 6
Sprinkle with green onions and serve with sour cream
Tips
Drain the ground beef thoroughly to prevent excess grease from making the casserole watery
Let the cheese stand covered for the full 5 minutes to ensure complete melting without overcooking
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days in covered container
Assemble ingredients in slow cooker insert night before, refrigerate, then cook as directed
Serve hot directly from slow cooker with additional toppings like salsa, jalapeños, or avocado
Common Mistakes
Don't skip draining the beef to avoid a greasy casserole
Avoid lifting the lid frequently during cooking to maintain consistent temperature
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Yes, but flour tortillas may become mushier during the long cooking time. Cut them slightly thicker if using.
What if I don't have cream of onion soup?
Substitute with cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup for similar creamy texture and flavor base.
How long will leftovers keep?
Store covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in microwave until heated through.