Slow Cooker Smothered Fritos Taco Bowls – Indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of our Slow Cooker Smothered Fritos Taco Bowls. This easy-to-make recipe combines tender ground beef, savory chili beans, and zesty taco seasoning for a delightful Tex-Mex experience. The best part? It’s all prepared in a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Get ready for a hearty and satisfying meal that will leave you craving more.
Picture this: it’s a cozy evening at home with my husband and our little family. The tantalizing aroma of spices fills the air as the Slow Cooker Smothered Fritos Taco Bowls work their magic in the kitchen. We gather around the table, eagerly awaiting the first bite. As we dig in, the combination of seasoned ground beef, creamy beans, and the satisfying crunch of Fritos transports us to a world of culinary bliss. It has become our go-to recipe for family nights, and it never fails to bring smiles to our faces.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try?
- The slow cooker does all the work, making this recipe incredibly convenient and hassle-free.
- The combination of lean ground beef, Bush’s Best Chili Beans, and homemade Rotel creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
- The addition of Fritos adds a delightful crunch and enhances the overall texture of the dish.
- Customize your taco bowls with your favorite toppings, such as cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, jalapenos, sour cream, hot sauce, avocado, fresh lime juice, and cilantro.
- Optional rice, like the Copycat Chipotle Restaurant’s Cilantro Lime Rice, adds another layer of deliciousness to the bowls.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef (680 grams)
- 1 cup chopped onion (yellow or sweet)
- 2 cans (16 ounces each) Bush’s Best Chili Beans (pinto beans – mild chili sauce) – do not drain
- 8-ounce can Tomato sauce
- 1 can Original Rotel (10-ounce can) – do not drain – Or use Homemade Rotel – Tomatoes and Green Chilies
- 1 packet taco seasoning (1 ounce)
- 1/2 cup water
Taco Bowl Fixings:
- Fritos
- Rice (optional) – Try the flavorful Copycat Chipotle Restaurant’s Cilantro Lime Rice
- Favorite taco toppings suggestions – cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, jalapenos, sour cream, hot sauce, avocado, fresh lime juice, fresh cilantro, etc.
Directions:
In a large skillet, brown the lean ground beef and chopped onions over medium-high heat until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are translucent. If using higher fat ground beef, drain excess fat before adding the taco seasoning.
Spray your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. Add the chili beans, tomato sauce, and Rotel to the slow cooker. Mix well.
Transfer the browned beef mixture to the slow cooker and combine it with the bean and sauce mixture.
Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 5-6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
In individual serving bowls, layer a handful of Fritos, a small amount of optional rice (if desired), a generous spoonful of the beefy taco mixture, and top it off with your favorite taco toppings.
For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze fresh lime juice over the top and sprinkle with fresh cilantro.
Enjoy the irresistible flavors of these Slow Cooker Smothered Fritos Taco Bowls with your loved ones!
Notes:
- Feel free to experiment with different taco toppings to suit your taste preferences.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the lean ground beef if desired.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, opt for a hot or spicy Rotel variety.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days and reheated for a quick and delicious meal.
In conclusion, these Slow Cooker Smothered Fritos Taco Bowls are the epitome of comfort food with a Tex-Mex twist. The enticing blend of seasoned ground beef, chili beans, and zesty taco seasoning creates a flavor explosion that will have you reaching for seconds. The convenience of using a slow cooker allows you to enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, craving a satisfying dinner, or simply looking to spice up your weeknight routine, these taco bowls are a winning choice. Customize them with your favorite toppings and savor the satisfying crunch of Fritos that takes this dish to a whole new level. So gather your loved ones, create unforgettable memories, and embark on a culinary journey that will leave everyone asking for the recipe. Give our Slow Cooker Smothered Fritos Taco Bowls a try, and get ready to be amazed by the explosion of flavors in every bite.
FAQs
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the lean ground beef with plant-based ground meat alternatives or additional vegetables like diced bell peppers or mushrooms.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! The Slow Cooker Smothered Fritos Taco Bowls can be frozen in airtight containers for up to three months. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat when ready to enjoy.
Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe to stovetop cooking. After browning the beef and onions in a skillet, transfer them to a large pot. Add the chili beans, tomato sauce, Rotel, taco seasoning, and water. Simmer on low heat for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally to allow the flavors to meld together.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Absolutely! If you prefer a spicier version, feel free to add additional spices like cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, or hot sauce to suit your heat preference.

Slow Cooker Smothered Fritos Taco Bowls
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef 680 grams
- 1 cup chopped onion yellow or sweet
- 2 cans 16 ounces each Bush's Best Chili Beans (pinto beans – mild chili sauce) – do not drain
- 8- ounce can Tomato sauce
- 1 can Original Rotel 10-ounce can – do not drain – Or use Homemade Rotel – Tomatoes and Green Chilies
- 1 packet taco seasoning 1 ounce
- 1/2 cup water
Taco Bowl Fixings:
- Fritos
- Rice optional – Try the flavorful Copycat Chipotle Restaurant's Cilantro Lime Rice
- Favorite taco toppings suggestions – cheddar cheese lettuce, tomato, jalapenos, sour cream, hot sauce, avocado, fresh lime juice, fresh cilantro, etc.
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the lean ground beef and chopped onions over medium-high heat until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are translucent. If using higher fat ground beef, drain excess fat before adding the taco seasoning.
- Spray your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. Add the chili beans, tomato sauce, and Rotel to the slow cooker. Mix well.
- Transfer the browned beef mixture to the slow cooker and combine it with the bean and sauce mixture.
- Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 5-6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- In individual serving bowls, layer a handful of Fritos, a small amount of optional rice (if desired), a generous spoonful of the beefy taco mixture, and top it off with your favorite taco toppings.
- For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze fresh lime juice over the top and sprinkle with fresh cilantro.
- Enjoy the irresistible flavors of these Slow Cooker Smothered Fritos Taco Bowls with your loved ones!
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