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Taco Tater Tot Casserole

Indulge in the flavors of Mexico with our tantalizing Taco Tater Tot Casserole. Brimming with savory ground beef, beans, and crowned with crunchy tater tots draped in rich enchilada sauce and cheese, this dish is a crowd-pleaser!
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Course: Main
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Taco Tater Tot, Taco Tater Tot Casserole
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 8
Calories: 251kcal

Equipment

  • 9 x 13-inch oven-safe dish
  • Spacious frying pan
  • Mixing spoon or spatula
  • Cutting knife

Ingredients

  • Ground beef preferably 85% lean: 1 lb
  • Onion finely diced: 1 medium
  • Red pepper optional, finely diced: 1 medium
  • Garlic minced: 1 clove
  • Green chiles canned, choose your heat level: 4 ounces
  • Taco seasoning packaged or homemade blend: 1 ounce or 2-3 tbsp
  • Black beans rinsed & drained: 15 ounces
  • Frozen corn: 10 ounces
  • Cheese Mexican blend, shredded: 3 cups
  • Red enchilada sauce: 10 ounces
  • Tater tots frozen: 32 ounces

Garnishing Suggestions:

  • Fresh cilantro
  • Creamy sour cream
  • Ripe tomatoes
  • Flavorful guacamole
  • Sliced olives
  • Chopped green onions
  • Tangy hot sauce

Instructions

  • Adjust the oven rack to the center and preheat to 400°F (204°C). Prep your baking dish with a non-stick spray.
  • In a bowl, whisk together taco seasoning ingredients until well-blended.
  • Using a large skillet, sauté beef, onions, and red peppers. Crumble the beef while sautéing and stir in garlic towards the end. Drain any excess fat.
  • Integrate green chiles, taco seasoning, beans, corn, and half the cheese into the beef mix. Ensure even mixing.
  • Transfer the meaty mixture into the baking dish. Drizzle the enchilada sauce evenly, then layer tater tots atop.
  • Bake until tater tots turn a crispy golden hue (around 30-40 minutes). Sprinkle the remaining cheese and bake for another 2-3 minutes for a melty finish.

Notes

  • For ultra-crunchy tots, pre-bake them for 10 minutes as per their package before adding to the casserole.
  • Opt for lean ground beef, ideally 85% or leaner.
  • Consider crafting your taco seasoning; it's economical, healthier, and tastier. This dish typically requires 2-3 tbsp.
  • Cheese enthusiasts can experiment with Monterey jack, pepper jack, or sharp cheddar.
  • Store any leftovers sealed in the fridge for up to five days.

Nutrition

Calories: 251kcal