Description
This Mexican Tater Tot Casserole is a flavorful and comforting dish combining seasoned ground beef, beans, corn, enchilada sauce, and crispy tater tots topped with melted cheddar cheese, garnished with fresh cilantro and sour cream. Perfect for a family dinner or potluck, it’s easy to prepare and bakes to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 green chili, sliced
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 3 cups frozen corn
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 can red enchilada sauce
Dairy and Toppings
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- Cilantro, to garnish
- Sour cream, to garnish
Other
- 4 cups frozen tater tots
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375˚F (190°C). Grease a 9 x 13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and set it aside for later use.
- Cook Ground Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook while breaking up the meat until the beef is thoroughly browned and the onions have softened. Drain any excess fat from the skillet, then return the mixture to the pan.
- Add Seasonings and Mix Ingredients: Add the taco seasoning mix, sliced green chili, rinsed black beans, frozen corn, and red enchilada sauce to the beef mixture. Stir everything well to combine. Continue cooking on medium heat for 8-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until evenly mixed.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the beef and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Layer the frozen tater tots evenly over the top of the mixture.
- Bake First Stage: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the tater tots turn golden brown and crispy.
- Add Remaining Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is slightly browned.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream. Serve the casserole hot and enjoy.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or use spicy enchilada sauce.
- Make sure to drain excess fat after browning the beef to reduce greasiness.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
