Craving something warm, comforting, and loaded with bold flavor? This Mexican Tater Tot Casserole is the perfect twist on classic comfort food. With taco-seasoned beef, creamy cheese, black beans, and crispy tater tots on top, this dish is an instant family favorite.
Perfect for busy weeknights or potluck parties, this casserole combines the textures you love—melty, creamy, crispy—and can be made ahead or even frozen. It’s a fuss-free one-dish meal that satisfies every time!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade)
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chiles
- 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (10 oz) can cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom)
- 1 (2 lb) bag frozen tater tots
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil or butter, for greasing
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat Oven
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or butter.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced onion for 2–3 minutes. Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds. Add ground beef and brown until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
Step 3: Add Taco Flavor
- Stir in taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and Rotel. Simmer for 5 minutes to combine flavors.
Step 4: Stir in Soup and Cheese
- Remove skillet from heat. Mix in the cream of chicken soup and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Stir until creamy and well blended.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in the baking dish. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer over the top. Sprinkle with the remaining ½ cup cheese.
Step 6: Bake
- Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the tater tots are crispy and golden and the casserole is bubbly. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Variation:
- Make it Spicy: Add jalapeños or pepper jack cheese
- Meatless Version: Swap the beef for cooked lentils or meatless crumbles
- Add Veggies: Mix in diced bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini
- Creamier Base: Add a splash of sour cream or cream cheese
- Top It Off: Serve with chopped green onions, sour cream, or salsa
COOKING Note:
To ensure super crispy tater tots, don’t crowd them and avoid covering the casserole with foil. You can also broil the top for 2–3 minutes at the end.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of Mexican rice or avocado salad
- Add a drizzle of hot sauce or chipotle ranch
- Top with chopped cilantro, tomatoes, or green onions
- Perfect with a cold beer or a sparkling limeade
- Add a side of refried beans for a fuller meal
Tips:
- Use a glass or ceramic dish for even baking
- For extra crispy tots, bake them separately for 15 minutes before adding
- Freeze before baking for up to 2 months (thaw before baking)
- Double the recipe and bake in two pans for parties
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
⏱️ Time Overview:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
🍽️ Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 8 servings):
- Calories: ~430
- Protein: ~21g
- Carbohydrates: ~28g
- Fat: ~26g
- Fiber: ~4g
- Sodium: ~750mg
Note: Nutrition varies based on specific ingredients and toppings.
❓FAQs
Can I use frozen veggies instead of canned?
- Yes, thawed frozen corn or peas work great and add freshness.
Can I make this ahead of time?
- Definitely! Assemble it fully, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.
Is it freezer-friendly?
- Yes. Assemble and freeze before baking. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.
Can I use a different meat?
- Absolutely. Ground chicken, turkey, or even pulled pork work well.
What other cheeses work?
- Try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend.
Conclusion:
This Mexican Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate comfort food with a zesty twist. It’s easy to throw together, endlessly customizable, and loaded with all your favorite taco flavors layered under crispy, golden tater tots.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or making a dish for your next gathering, this cheesy casserole is sure to become a go-to favorite. Just bake, serve, and enjoy the warm, melty, Tex-Mex magic!