Crockpot Taco Hash Brown (Print Version)

Hearty slow-cooked dish blending seasoned beef, cheese, and crispy hash browns for busy nights.

# Ingredients:

Ground Meat

01 - 1.5 to 2 pounds ground beef or preferred ground meat

Seasoning and Liquids

02 - 3 tablespoons taco seasoning, divided
03 - 60 milliliters (1/4 cup) water for taco meat

Vegetables and Bases

04 - 26 ounces frozen shredded hash browns, partially thawed
05 - 240 milliliters (1 cup) salsa, store-bought or homemade

Dairy

06 - 4 cups shredded cheese (sharp cheddar and pepper jack), divided
07 - 120 milliliters (1/2 cup) sour cream

Soup

08 - 10.5 ounces canned cream of chicken soup

Optional Toppings

09 - Tomatoes, jalapeños, lettuce, olives, extra sour cream, hot sauce as desired

# Instructions:

01 - In a medium skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
02 - Add 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning and 60 milliliters of water to the cooked meat. Simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.
03 - In the crockpot, layer the shredded hash browns, seasoned beef, salsa, 2 cups of shredded cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and the remaining taco seasoning. Mix thoroughly to combine.
04 - Cover and cook on low heat for 4 hours, or on high for 2 to 2.5 hours.
05 - During the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of shredded cheese on top. Finish cooking uncovered.
06 - Serve hot with optional toppings such as tomatoes, jalapeños, lettuce, olives, sour cream, or hot sauce as desired.

# Notes:

01 - Customize by adding black beans, corn, green chilies, or bell peppers to enhance flavor and texture.
02 - Frozen cubed hash browns can be used as a substitute for shredded hash browns.
03 - To increase spiciness, use hot salsa, pepper jack cheese, or add extra jalapeños.
04 - Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat safely in a microwave or oven set to 175°C (350°F).