Are you tired of the same old weeknight dinners that leave you uninspired? Say goodbye to the dinner dilemma with our "Easy Crock Pot Weeknight Meals Friday Favorites"! This mouthwatering recipe combines savory ground beef, zesty taco seasoning, and a medley of colorful ingredients, all simmered to perfection in your trusty crock pot. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it, allowing the rich flavors to develop while you go about your day. Ready to transform your weeknight meals into something extraordinary? Dive into this delicious dish that will have your family asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1 cup corn
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and chopping the onion, draining the black beans, and measuring out the taco seasoning.
- Place the ground beef in the bottom of the crock pot and break it into smaller chunks using a wooden spoon or spatula.
- Add the chopped onion directly on top of the ground beef to help distribute flavor evenly.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef and onion mixture, ensuring it covers the ingredients thoroughly.
- Pour the drained black beans over the seasoned beef, spreading them evenly across the surface.
- Add the can of diced tomatoes with their juice, distributing them carefully to cover the other ingredients.
- Sprinkle the corn over the top of the mixture, creating a final layer in the crock pot.
- Cover the crock pot with the lid and set to low heat for 6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the beef to cook completely.
- After 6 hours, stir the contents to ensure even cooking and to break up any remaining large beef chunks.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped cilantro if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save even more time on busy weeknights, chop the onion and measure out your ingredients the night before. Store them in the fridge for a quick assembly in the morning.
- Layer Wisely: When adding ingredients to the crock pot, layer them in the order listed. This helps the flavors meld beautifully and ensures even cooking.
- Customize It: Feel free to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Check for Doneness: After 6 hours, stir the mixture and check that the beef is fully cooked and tender. If it's not, give it an additional 30 minutes.
- Garnish for Flavor: Elevate your dish by garnishing with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro just before serving. These toppings add a delightful creaminess and freshness.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your meal with tortilla chips, rice, or a simple salad to round out the dinner experience and keep everyone satisfied.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 363kcal
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 29g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 60mg
