Description

This Taco Tater Tot Casserole is the perfect fusion of crispy tater tots, savory taco-seasoned beef, and gooey melted cheese. It’s a one-pan, family-friendly meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish, this cheesy, crunchy, and satisfying casserole is guaranteed to become a favorite!

Ingredients

For the Taco Meat:

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
1 small onion, chopped
1 packet taco seasoning
½ cup salsa
½ cup black beans (optional, drained & rinsed)
½ cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

For the Casserole:

1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese (or cheddar)
1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots

Optional Toppings:

Chopped green onions
Diced tomatoes
Sliced black olives
Jalapeño slices
Fresh cilantro
Guacamole or avocado slices

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Taco Meat

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onions are soft (5-7 minutes). Drain excess grease.
Stir in the taco seasoning, salsa, black beans, and corn. Simmer for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole

Stir the sour cream and 1 cup of shredded cheese into the taco meat mixture.
Spread the mixture evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish (if not using an oven-safe skillet).
Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the beef mixture.
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese over the tater tots.

Step 3: Bake the Casserole

Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before adding your favorite toppings.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Garnish with chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, black olives, jalapeños, or fresh cilantro.
Serve with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa on the side. Enjoy!

Notes

Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready!
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Instructions: Freeze unbaked or fully baked casserole for up to 3 months. Reheat at 375°F until warmed through.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or use spicy taco seasoning for extra heat!
Lighter Option: Use ground turkey and reduced-fat cheese to cut calories.

Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 30-35 min
Category: dinner
Cuisine: Mexican-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 generous portion
Calories: 531 kcal
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 980mg
Fat: 34g
Carbohydrates: 37g
Protein: 25g