Taco Tater Tot Casserole Recipe Packed Full of Rich Flavor

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Need a taco tater tot casserole dish that is mouth-watering!? Get the recipe and ingredients below!

taco tater tot casserole

Combine the best of tacos and casseroles in this Taco Tater Tot Casserole, a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

With layers of seasoned beef, black beans, corn, and melted cheese, topped with crispy tater tots, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

What is Taco Tater Tot Casserole?

Taco Tater Tot Casserole brings together classic taco flavors in a comforting, easy-to-make casserole.

It’s a delightful combination of seasoned beef, creamy enchilada sauce, and crispy tater tots, all baked to golden perfection.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or celebrations, this casserole offers rich flavors and a variety of textures in every bite.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced (optional)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 4-oz can diced green chiles (mild or hot)
  • 1 1-oz package taco seasoning (or 2-3 tbsp homemade seasoning)
  • 1 15-oz can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 10-oz package frozen corn
  • 3 cups Mexican blend cheese, shredded
  • 1 10-oz can red enchilada sauce
  • 1 32-oz package frozen tater tots

Optional Toppings

  • Sour cream
  • Guacamole
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Cilantro
  • Sliced olives
  • Green onions
  • Hot sauce
taco tater tot casserole

Substitutions and Variations

  • Ground Meat: Replace beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative.
  • Beans: Swap black beans for pinto beans or kidney beans.
  • Cheese: Use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a spicier pepper jack cheese.
  • Vegetables: Add diced zucchini, jalapeños, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Sauce: Substitute enchilada sauce with salsa verde or mild taco sauce for a twist.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture

  1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
  2. Add diced onion, red bell pepper (if using), and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
  3. Stir in diced green chiles, taco seasoning, and 2-3 tablespoons of water. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

  1. Stir black beans, frozen corn, and 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese into the beef mixture.
  2. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

  1. Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the beef mixture.
  2. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.

Step 5: Bake

  1. Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.

Step 6: Add Final Touches

  1. Sprinkle the remaining 1 ½ cups of cheese over the casserole and return to the oven for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with your favorite toppings and serve hot.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Skipping the Draining Step: Always drain excess fat from the beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
  2. Underseasoning: Ensure the meat mixture is well-seasoned to avoid bland flavors.
  3. Overcrowding the Tater Tots: Arrange the tots in a single layer for optimal crispiness.
  4. Not Preheating the Oven: Preheat the oven to ensure even cooking.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve

  • Serve the casserole hot, straight from the baking dish.
  • Pair with a fresh side salad or Mexican rice for a complete meal.

Presentation Ideas

  • Garnish with vibrant toppings like diced tomatoes, cilantro, and green onions.
  • Serve in individual bowls with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole.
taco tater tot casserole

Recipe Tips

  • Crispier Tater Tots: For extra crispy tots, bake them on a sheet pan for 10 minutes before assembling the casserole.
  • Homemade Seasoning: Make your own taco seasoning for a personalized flavor blend.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Assemble the casserole and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole (without tater tots) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add tots before baking.

Q: Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh or canned corn works well. Drain canned corn before adding.

Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or in the microwave until heated through.

Q: Can I make this casserole spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture for extra heat.

Taco Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 4-oz can diced green chiles
  • 1 package taco seasoning
  • 1 15-oz can black beans, rinsed
  • 1 10-oz package frozen corn
  • 1 10-oz can red enchilada sauce
  • 3 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
  • 1 32-oz package frozen tater tots

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
  2. Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic. Add green chiles and taco seasoning.
  3. Stir in black beans, corn, and cheese. Spread mixture in the baking dish.
  4. Pour enchilada sauce over the mixture and layer tater tots on top.
  5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, top with cheese, and bake for 5 more minutes.
  6. Garnish with toppings and serve.
taco tater tot casserole

Conclusion on Taco Tater Tot Casserole

Taco Tater Tot Casserole combines the best of tacos and casseroles into one irresistibly delicious dish.

With its savory beef, crispy tater tots, and cheesy goodness, it’s perfect for any occasion.

Customize it with your favorite toppings and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience. Try this recipe today and savor every bite!

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