Crock Pot Taco Sloppy Joes

Crock Pot Taco Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on the classic sloppy joe with all the bold flavors of taco seasoning and enchilada sauce. This recipe lets you come home to a warm, hearty filling that works perfectly in buns, tacos, burritos, or even taco salads. It's a crowd-pleaser that keeps dinner simple and delicious without sacrificing flavor.

I started making this when I wanted a fresh spin on sloppy joes that my family would actually ask for several times a month. It quickly became a staple for busy weeknights because once you toss everything in the crock pot, dinner almost makes itself.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: the base for rich savory flavor choose 80/20 for juiciness or swap for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option
• Refried beans: add creaminess and help bind the filling canned varieties are fine but homemade works great if you have it
• Enchilada sauce: brings that classic taco flavor and a little acidity red is traditional, but green enchilada sauce is a great switch up
• Taco seasoning: spices up the filling with familiar taco notes you can use a packet or make your own for control over heat and salt
• Salsa: adds moisture and a fresh tomato touch any favorite flavor works here
• Hamburger buns: sturdy enough to hold all the filling without falling apart soft sandwich buns also work well
• Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, lettuce, sour cream, chopped tomatoes all add freshness and texture

Instructions

Sauté and brown the ground beef:

Cook the beef over medium high heat, breaking it into small crumbles until it's fully browned and no longer pink. This step builds the flavor base and helps release fat. Drain the excess grease to keep the filling from getting too oily.

Combine ingredients in the slow cooker:

Transfer the browned beef to a 56 quart slow cooker. Add the refried beans, enchilada sauce, taco seasoning, and salsa to the meat. Stir everything together until well combined for even flavor distribution.

Slow cook the mixture:

Cover and cook on the low setting for 4 hours. This slow cooking melds the spices and sauces with the beef, deepening the flavor and making it tender and saucy.

Serve and garnish:

Spoon the filling onto hamburger buns and top with your favorite options like shredded cheddar, lettuce, sour cream, and chopped tomatoes. You can also use this filling as a hearty taco or burrito base or throw it on a taco salad for a quick meal.

Refried beans are my favorite part of this recipe because they transform the filling from just a meat mixture into something creamy and substantial. I remember the first time I made this for a family gathering and watched everyone go back for seconds happily by the slow cooker. It's one of those recipes that feels like comfort and fiesta all in one bite.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or microwave until heated through. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter option without losing protein. If you want to avoid refried beans, mashed black beans or cooked lentils could work but will slightly change texture. Feel free to swap enchilada sauce with your favorite salsa verde or a mild tomato sauce with taco seasoning mixed in.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with classic sides like French fries, tater tots, or Spanish rice for a full taco themed meal. Add a crisp green salad or quick steamed veggies to balance the richness. Top the sandwiches with avocado slices or pickled jalapeños for an extra zing.

This recipe has saved many chaotic weeknights in my home and is always one of the first to disappear when I bring it to potlucks. I hope it becomes a favorite in your house too.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can this filling be used beyond sandwiches?

Yes, it works great as a filling for tacos, burritos, or even taco salads, adding robust flavor to various dishes.

→ Is stovetop preparation possible?

Absolutely. Brown the beef in a skillet, add beans, enchilada sauce, taco seasoning, and salsa, then heat through until flavors meld.

→ Can the meat quantity be adjusted?

Yes, you can halve the amounts or freeze extra portions for convenient future meals.

→ What sides complement this taco-inspired filling?

French fries, tater tots, Spanish rice, fresh salads, or steamed veggies are excellent accompaniments to balance the hearty filling.

→ How can the filling be kept warm for serving?

Keeping it in the slow cooker on the warm setting allows guests to serve themselves at gatherings.

→ How long are leftovers good for?

Stored airtight in the refrigerator, leftovers stay fresh for 4-5 days, or frozen up to 3 months.