Mexican Medley – A Flavorful Crockpot Favorite
There are some days when I long for the smell of a crockpot meal cooking. Yesterday was one of those days, but I didn’t have anything planned, so I went on a journey through my cupboards. Sometimes a slow cooker meal you invent can turn out really flat and bland, and other times it comes out perfect. What do you think happened this time? Well, I wouldn’t be sharing it if I didn’t fall in love with it.
Luckily, the ingredients were pretty basic, so I was able to remember what I did. This Mexican Medley was a crowd-pleaser!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is a slow cooker dream. Whether you’re short on time or just want to enjoy a warm, comforting meal at the end of the day, Mexican Medley delivers.
- Effortless Cooking: A true “set it and forget it” meal, perfect for busy days.
- Flexible Ingredients: Customizable with what you have on hand.
- Great Leftovers: Even better the next day, with the flavors blending beautifully overnight.
- Perfect for All Occasions: Serve as a main dish or as a flavorful side with chicken or pork.
Ingredients for Mexican Medley
This recipe combines pantry staples and fresh ingredients for a flavorful dish:
- Vegetable or Chicken Broth: Forms the base of the dish and keeps it moist.
- Sweet Corn & Green Beans: Add color, texture, and sweetness.
- Medium Salsa: Packs in bold Mexican flavors.
- Taco Seasoning & Italian Seasoning: A spice blend that creates the perfect flavor balance.
- Black Beans & Diced Tomatoes: Add richness and texture.
- Minute Rice: Makes the dish hearty and filling.
- Black Olives: Provide a tangy, savory touch.
Feel free to adjust the spice level by choosing mild or spicy salsa and adding hot sauce if you like extra heat.
Tips & Tricks
- Don’t Overcook the Rice: Add the rice toward the end to ensure it stays fluffy and doesn’t get mushy.
- Make It Your Own: Substitute pinto beans for black beans or add diced jalapeños for more spice.
- Use Leftovers Creatively: Turn this medley into burrito or taco fillings the next day.
What to Serve with Mexican Medley
This versatile dish pairs beautifully with other sides and mains. Here are some ideas:
- Grilled Chicken or Pork: A perfect complement to the bold flavors of the medley.
- Tortilla Chips: Scoop up the medley like a hearty salsa.
- Asparagus or Fresh Greens: Add a fresh, crunchy side for balance.
Leftovers & Storage
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of broth to refresh the texture.
- Freezing: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months for easy future meals.
Equipment
To make this recipe, you’ll need:
- Slow Cooker: The heart of this one-pot wonder.
- Mixing Spoon: For combining the ingredients evenly.
- Measuring Cups: For precise portions.
- Rice Cooker (Optional): If you prefer to prepare the rice separately.
Other Recipes to Try
If you love this Mexican Medley, try these other delicious recipes from Sisters Know Best:
- Healthy Bell Pepper Taco Boat Bake – A healthy twist on traditional tacos.
- Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken – An easy and flavorful chicken dish.
- Easy Mexican Spaghetti Squash Recipe – A light yet satisfying Mexican-inspired dish.
For other great crockpot recipes, check out our entire collection of crockpot recipes.
Mexican Medley
Equipment
- Slow Cooker The heart of this one-pot wonder.
- Mixing Spoon For combining the ingredients evenly.
- Measuring Cups For precise portions.
- Rice Cooker (Optional) If you prefer to prepare the rice separately.
Ingredients
- 32 Ounce Vegetable or Chicken Broth (Fat Free)
- 1 Can Sweet Corn , loosely drained
- 1 Can Green Beans , loosely drained
- 1 Cup Medium Salsa
- 1 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- 1 Large Onion , chopped
- 1 Can Black Olives
- 1/2 Package Taco Seasoning Mix
- 1 Tbsp Italian Seasoning
- 1 Cup Minute Rice , reserve until last 30 minutes
- 1 Can Black Beans
- 14 Ounce Canned Diced Tomatoes
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to slow cooker.
- Cook on low 4-5 hours.
- In the last 30 minutes, add rice.
- Serve alone or as a side with chicken or pork.
We love to hear from our readers! What changes did you make to this dish? How did it come out? What might you do differently next time? What other crockpot meals do you love? Let us know in the comments!