Description
This Mexican Tater Tot Casserole is a hearty, flavorful dish combining seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, and enchilada sauce, topped with crispy tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, it blends Tex-Mex flavors with the satisfying crunch of baked tater tots and creamy cheese garnishes.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat & Vegetables
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 green chili, sliced
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 3 cups frozen corn
Seasonings & Sauces
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 can red enchilada sauce
Dairy & Toppings
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- Cilantro, to garnish
- Sour cream, to garnish
Other
- 4 cups frozen tater tots
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375˚F (190°C). Grease a 9 x 13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Cook the Beef: 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 are softened. Drain off any excess fat and return the mixture to the skillet.
- Season & Mix: Add the taco seasoning mix, sliced green chili, black beans, frozen corn, and red enchilada sauce to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Continue cooking for another 8-10 minutes over medium heat, allowing flavors to meld. Then stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and gently mix until cheese is evenly distributed throughout.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the beef and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Arrange the frozen tater tots in an even layer on top of the beef mixture.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crisp on top.
- Add More Cheese: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the tater tots. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and slightly browned.
- Garnish & Serve: Take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and a dollop of sour cream before serving hot.
Notes
- For a spicier casserole, add extra chopped green chilies or jalapeños.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter version.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the beef and add extra beans or vegetables.
- Letting the casserole rest a few minutes after baking helps it set and makes serving easier.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave.
