taco tater tot casserole
Learn how to make a hearty taco tater tot casserole that combines crispy tots, seasoned ground beef, and Mexican-inspired flavors for the ultimate comfort food dinner
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef 80/20 or 90/10
- 1 chopped onion
Seasonings & Spices:
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp dried cilantro
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne optional
- 2 packets taco seasoning
- 1.5 cups water
Flavor Additions:
- 1 can canned corn drained
- 1 can Rotel tomatoes with green chiles
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups Colby Jack cheese shredded
- 3 –4 cups frozen tater tots
- Optional: 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- Optional: Southwest Ranch dressing
Optional Vegetables:
- 1.5 cups sweet corn kernels fresh or frozen
- 1 grated zucchini
- Diced bell peppers optional
- Sliced black olives optional
Beans:
- 1 cup black beans rinsed and drained
- Optional: 1/2 cup pinto beans
Homemade Taco Seasoning (alternative option):
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven to 400°F.
Cook Ground Beef:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and chopped onion.
- Cook until browned, then drain excess fat.
Season the Beef:
- Stir in taco seasoning, water, and optional spices or barbecue sauce.
- Simmer until mixture thickens slightly.
Add Mix-ins:
- Stir in canned corn, Rotel tomatoes, sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheese.
- Optionally add beans, zucchini, or other vegetables. Mix well.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Top evenly with more shredded cheese.
- Layer frozen tater tots in a single layer over the top.
Bake:
- Bake uncovered at 400°F for 25–30 minutes, or until tater tots are golden and crispy.
- Optional: broil for 2–3 minutes for extra crispiness.
Serve:
- Let cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with optional Southwest Ranch or extra cheese.