This Taco Tater Tot Casserole is a cheesy, crispy, and flavor-packed meal that combines all the best parts of tacos with crispy tater tots! Made with seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and crunchy tater tots, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even game day. It’s an easy, one-pan meal that the whole family will love! 🌮🥔🧀✨

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning (or homemade)
• 1 (10 oz) can Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, drained
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
• 1 cup (250 ml) sour cream
• 1 ½ cups (170 g) shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

For Garnish (Optional):

• ½ cup chopped green onions
• ½ cup diced tomatoes
• ¼ cup chopped cilantro
• ½ cup sour cream or guacamole

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion is soft (about 5 minutes).
5. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
6. Drain excess grease, then add taco seasoning, Rotel tomatoes, black beans, salt, and pepper.
7. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

8. Stir sour cream and 1 cup of shredded cheese into the beef mixture.
9. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
10. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer over the beef mixture.
11. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese on top.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

12. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

13. Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
14. Garnish with green onions, diced tomatoes, cilantro, and extra sour cream if desired.

Notes

• Want it spicier? Add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
• Make it creamy: Stir in ½ cup cream cheese for a richer texture.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Assemble the casserole (without baking) and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding 10 extra minutes to the baking time.

Why This Recipe Works

The crispy tater tots add an irresistible crunch, while the cheesy, seasoned taco filling makes every bite deliciously comforting. It’s a simple, satisfying meal with minimal prep!

Conclusion

This Taco Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—cheesy, crispy, and loaded with bold taco flavors. It’s easy to make, family-friendly, and perfect for any occasion. Try it today for a fun and delicious twist on taco night!🌮🥔🧀✨