Easy Taco Tater Tot Casserole Recipe
The aroma of a hearty, savory dish filled with Mexican-inspired flavors fills the kitchen as you prepare a satisfying and easy taco tater tot casserole recipe. With its crispy tater tot crust and spicy beef filling, this mouthwatering dish is perfect for a family dinner and sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
As a child, my favorite dinners were always built around comfort food that we could share around the kitchen table. My mom used to make casseroles regularly, and one of our all-time favorites was her taco-inspired dish that she would occasionally reinvent. She combined the joy of tacos with the ease of a one-pan bake, making it the perfect meal for a busy weeknight. Over time, I’ve kept the tradition alive by adding a few twists of my own, including the delightful crunch of tater tots on top.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Family Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the flavorful layers and crispy topping.
- Quick & Easy: This dish comes together in just under an hour, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.
- Customizable: You can easily add your favorite toppings or ingredients to suit your taste.
- Budget-Friendly: Using common pantry items, this meal is affordable and satisfying.
Ingredients Notes
This recipe calls for simple ingredients that are easy to find. For the best flavor, use quality ground beef, fresh onions, and a good taco seasoning mix. If you’re missing any of these items, feel free to make substitutions like ground turkey or chicken, or even add some diced bell peppers for a veggie boost.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a large baking dish. This will ensure your casserole doesn’t stick and cleans up easily afterwards.
Step 2
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat, then add diced onions and taco seasoning. Stir well and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 3
Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top with a layer of shredded cheese, then add a single layer of tater tots over the cheese.
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Step 4
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy. The cheese should be melted and bubbly.
Step 5
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Top with your favorite garnishes such as sour cream, sliced jalapeños, or chopped fresh cilantro.
Storage Options
Let the casserole cool completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions until hot.
Variations & Substitutions
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Add black beans or corn for extra texture and nutrition.
- Spice it up with additional jalapeños or hot sauce if you like more heat.
- Substitute dairy-free cheese to make it lactose-friendly.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect for casual dinners and pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or a simple guacamole. It’s also a hit at potlucks and can be doubled to serve a crowd.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven cold.
What if I don’t have taco seasoning? No worries! You can make your own by mixing chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Adjust the proportions to your taste.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian? Yes, simply omit the meat and increase the amount of beans or add crumbled tofu for protein, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian twist.
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Easy Taco Tater Tot Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs ground beef lean
- 1 packet taco seasoning or homemade
- 1 cup salsa mild or medium
- 2 cups shredded cheese Mexican blend
- 4 cups tater tots frozen
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and salsa. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
- Pour the beef mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle cheese over the top.
- Arrange the tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
