why make this recipe
Slow Cooker Tex-Mex Ground Meat is a fantastic meal that combines rich flavors with effortless cooking. This dish is perfect for busy days when you want to come home to a tasty and hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
The combination of spices, juicy ground meat, and fresh vegetables creates a satisfying blend that will please any crowd. It’s not only full of flavor but also versatile, giving you plenty of options for serving.
equipment needed for Slow Cooker Tex-Mex Ground Meat
To prepare this delightful dish, you will need a few basic kitchen tools.
- Slow cooker or Instant Pot
- Large skillet for browning meat
- Cutting board for chopping vegetables
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
What You Need to Make Slow Cooker Tex-Mex Ground Meat
- 1 1/2 pounds ground meat
- 15 ounces canned corn (drained & rinsed)
- 15 ounces canned black beans (drained & rinsed)
- 15 ounces diced tomatoes
- Crushed tomatoes or salsa
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt (or more)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 cup low-sodium beef or chicken broth (for Instant Pot only)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, optional for garnish
How to Cook Slow Cooker Tex-Mex Ground Meat Step by Step
To begin making Slow Cooker Tex-Mex Ground Meat, heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You should see the oil shimmer, which indicates it’s hot enough for cooking. While the oil is heating, season the ground beef with salt and pepper.
When the oil is ready, add the seasoned ground beef to the skillet. Cook the beef while breaking it apart with a spatula. Crumble the beef until it’s no longer pink, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. If there’s too much grease, you can drain it before moving to the next step.
Once the beef is cooked, transfer the mixture to the slow cooker. This step is crucial for ensuring that all the flavors meld together during cooking. Next, add all the remaining ingredients to the slow cooker. This includes corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, and all the flavorful spices. Stir everything together well to ensure that the flavors combine properly.
Now that everything is mixed well, set your slow cooker to cook on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours or on LOW for 4 to 6 hours. The longer it cooks on LOW, the more the flavors will deepen. If you’re using an Instant Pot for this recipe, turn it on and select the sauté function. When it’s hot, add the oil, ground beef, bell pepper, and onion.
Cook this mixture for 5 to 7 minutes or until the meat is browned and the vegetables soften. As you cook, remember to crumble the meat. If necessary, you can also drain any excess grease at this point. After browning, turn off the pressure cooker and add all remaining ingredients, including 1 cup of broth or water and stir to mix thoroughly.
Now, close the lid of the Instant Pot and seal the valve. Set it to high pressure and cook for 10 minutes. When the cooking time is complete, do a quick release of the pressure to let the steam escape.
how to make Slow Cooker Tex-Mex Ground Meat
Making Slow Cooker Tex-Mex Ground Meat is straightforward, making it a great option for weekday meals. First, the key step is browning the ground meat to add flavor. While the meat cooks, prepare your vegetables. Dice the bell pepper and onion so they can soften during cooking.
Next, combine all the ingredients in your chosen cooking method. Whether you opt for a slow cooker or an Instant Pot, mixing everything is essential for a well-balanced flavor profile. If you’re using canned ingredients like corn and beans, remember to rinse them to remove extra sodium.
Once all your ingredients are in the pot, it’s merely a matter of setting the timer and letting your kitchen fill with the inviting scents of Tex-Mex goodness.
how to serve Slow Cooker Tex-Mex Ground Meat
When your Slow Cooker Tex-Mex Ground Meat is ready, it’s time to serve. This dish is bursting with flavor and perfect for serving in a variety of ways. You can spoon the mixture into bowls as a standalone meal.
For a more classic presentation, consider serving it over rice or inside warm tortillas to make delicious burritos. Topping it with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or shredded cheese adds an extra layer of flavor. Don’t forget to serve some tortilla chips on the side for added crunch.
This dish is also excellent for meal prep, allowing you to pre-portion servings for the week.
what to serve with Slow Cooker Tex-Mex Ground Meat
When planning a meal around Slow Cooker Tex-Mex Ground Meat, consider serving sides that complement its bold flavors. A simple green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
Mexican-style rice or cilantro-lime rice is also a fantastic addition. You might also want to serve it with sides like guacamole or fresh salsa for extra flavor. Homemade cornbread can also be a delicious accompaniment that absorbs all the delightful juices.
If you desire a more substantial meal, adding refried beans can round out the experience.
how to store Slow Cooker Tex-Mex Ground Meat
Storing your Slow Cooker Tex-Mex Ground Meat is simple. Allow any leftovers to cool down to room temperature before transferring them into airtight containers. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days.
For longer storage, consider freezing the leftovers. Make sure to portion them into freezer-safe containers or bags. By doing this, you can easily reheat single servings whenever you crave this hearty dish.
When you are ready to enjoy the frozen meat, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator or microwave it directly from frozen, stirring occasionally until heated through.
tips to make Slow Cooker Tex-Mex Ground Meat
To ensure your Slow Cooker Tex-Mex Ground Meat shines, there are several key tips to consider. First, feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Adding extra chili powder or cumin can spice it up if you prefer a bolder flavor.
Make sure to use good quality ground meat for the best texture and taste. You can also mix meats, using half beef and half turkey for a lighter version. The freshness of ingredients matters, so use fresh vegetables for the best results.
Another tip is to consider the cooking time; if you plan to be away during the day, cooking on LOW gives you a softer, richer flavor profile.
variation
There are plenty of opportunities for variations with Slow Cooker Tex-Mex Ground Meat. You can easily switch up the type of meat you use. Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meats make excellent alternatives.
Incorporating additional vegetables can also enhance nutrition and flavor. Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can add extra color and texture.
If you want a more creamy version, adding a block of cream cheese into the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking creates a wonderfully rich and smooth texture. You can also adjust the spice level by adding more or less of your chosen seasonings and chilies.
best time to make Slow Cooker Tex-Mex Ground Meat
Slow Cooker Tex-Mex Ground Meat is perfect for any day of the week, especially busy evenings. It excels as a weeknight dinner option because it requires minimal hands-on time.
This dish shines on days when you crave comfort food without the fuss. It’s also a hit at parties or gatherings, making it an ideal choice for potlucks and family events.
Additionally, cooking a large batch on the weekend can provide satisfying meals throughout the week, making it a versatile recipe that fits effortlessly into your meal planning.
common mistakes to avoid
While making Slow Cooker Tex-Mex Ground Meat is easy, there are some common mistakes that can affect the outcome. One pitfall is not draining the canned beans or corn, which can lead to a watery dish.
Another mistake is overcooking the meat initially. If you browned the beef for too long before transferring it to the slow cooker, it may become dry and tough.
Lastly, under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. You can also add more spices at the beginning or during the cooking process for extra depth.
nutritional notes
Slow Cooker Tex-Mex Ground Meat can be a nutritious option depending on how you prepare it. By using lean ground meat and plenty of vegetables, you create a balanced dish that contains protein, fiber, and vital nutrients.
The use of black beans and corn adds fiber, while tomatoes contribute vitamins and minerals. If you wish to lower the calorie count, opt for ground turkey or chicken, and limit the use of added salt.
Portion control is also essential, especially if you are watching your calorie intake. Overall, this dish can fit well into a variety of diet plans when prepared thoughtfully.
FAQs
Can I use frozen meat?
Yes, you can use frozen meat, but it’s best to thaw it beforehand for even cooking.
What can I substitute for black beans?
You can substitute black beans with pinto beans or kidney beans, according to your taste.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish stores well, and flavors often improve after a day in the fridge.
conclusion
Slow Cooker Tex-Mex Ground Meat is a wonderful choice for anyone looking to create a flavorful, yet easy meal. With its combination of spices, meats, and vegetables, it’s sure to satisfy a hungry family or group of friends.
This dish not only simplifies cooking but also allows for creativity with variations and serving options. Whether you enjoy it in a bowl, folded in a tortilla, or served over rice, it promises to warm you up and fill you up. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delicious flavors it brings to your table!
