Taco Tater Tot Casserole is a delightful fusion of two beloved comfort foods: tacos and tater tots. This dish combines seasoned ground beef, cheese, and crispy tater tots, all baked to perfection. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to serve something fun and delicious. Let’s dive into this easy and flavorful recipe that will surely become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed nacho cheese soup or cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream, salsa, and diced tomatoes (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the Seasonings and Vegetables: Stir in the taco seasoning and water according to the packet instructions. Add the drained corn, black beans, and condensed nacho cheese soup (or cream of chicken soup). Mix until well combined and heated through.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the beef mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the beef mixture. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are crispy and golden brown.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with sour cream, salsa, and diced tomatoes.
Conclusion
This Taco Tater Tot Casserole is a fun and flavorful dish that combines the best of tacos and tater tots. It’s easy to make, versatile, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a comforting meal, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
2. Can I freeze Taco Tater Tot Casserole?
Absolutely! After assembling, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
3. What can I serve with Taco Tater Tot Casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a variety of sides such as a fresh green salad, Mexican rice, or refried beans. You can also serve it with tortilla chips and salsa for a complete Tex-Mex meal.
4. Can I use a different type of meat?
Certainly! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat substitute can be used as a substitute for ground beef. Just make sure to cook and crumble the meat before adding it to the casserole.
5. How can I make this casserole spicier?
To add more heat, you can include diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce in the beef mixture. Using a spicier taco seasoning or adding extra chili powder can also increase the heat level.
6. Can I add other ingredients to this casserole?
Yes, this recipe is very versatile. Feel free to add ingredients like diced bell peppers, olives, or different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.
Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Taco Tater Tot Casserole with your friends and family! 🌮🧀🍅
Feel free to ask if you need more recipes or have any other questions!