Ground Beef Crockpot Meal
This ground beef crockpot meal is a total game-changer, incredibly easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for feeding the whole family. A hearty, comforting, and versatile slow cooker recipe with minimal effort.
Equipment
- skillet,
- Slow Cooker / Crockpot
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 large onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 28 ounce can crushed tomatoes
- 15 ounce can tomato sauce
- 15 ounce can kidney beans drained and rinsed
- 15 ounce can corn drained
- 1 bell pepper chopped, any color
- 1 packet taco seasoning or homemade blend
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until cooked through. Drain excess grease. This adds flavor and prevents clumping. Skip if short on time.
- Prep the Veggies: Chop the onion and bell pepper. Mince the garlic.
- Layer in Crockpot: Add browned beef, onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, corn, and bell pepper to the crockpot.
- Season and Add Broth: Sprinkle in taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Pour in beef broth.
- Mix Well: Stir all ingredients to combine evenly.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Shred (Optional): Use two forks to shred beef before serving for a shredded texture.
- Serve: Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Notes
Substitutions available: For keto version omit beans/corn and add vegetables like zucchini and cauliflower. For vegetarian, use plant-based ground beef substitute. Add heat with cayenne or jalapeños. Use disposable liner for easy cleanup. Variation: Substitute ground chicken or add pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice.