Mexican Tater Tot Casserole is the perfect dish for busy families or anyone looking for a hearty meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. With a satisfying combination of seasoned ground beef, wholesome beans and corn, and crispy tater tots, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner, a potluck, or even game day, this recipe offers comfort and flavor in every bite.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 490
- Protein: 26 grams
- Carbohydrates: 52 grams
- Fat: 22 grams
- Fiber: 6 grams
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Sodium: 850 mg
Why Make This Mexican Tater Tot Casserole
This Mexican Tater Tot Casserole is not only simple to prepare but also versatile and packed with flavor. The taco seasoning adds a delightful kick, complementing the heartiness of the beef and the sweetness of the corn. Plus, the golden, crispy tater tots on top create a contrasting texture that will have you coming back for seconds! It’s a dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it a surefire hit at any gathering.
How to Make Mexican Tater Tot Casserole
Follow these steps for an uncomplicated yet delectable meal that will impress your family and friends!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 0.5 cup yellow onion (chopped)
- 4 teaspoons taco seasoning (divided)
- 1 cup chunky salsa
- 15 ounces black beans (1 can, rinsed and drained)
- 15 ounces fire-roasted corn (1 can, drained)
- 4 cups Mexican cheese blend (divided, 16 ounces)
- 32 ounces frozen tater tots (2 pounds)
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set it aside.
Step 2: Sautéing
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the lean ground beef and chopped yellow onion for 5-6 minutes, or until the beef is no longer pink and the onion is tender. Be sure to drain any excess grease for a lighter meal.
Step 3: Mixing
Stir in two teaspoons of taco seasoning and three tablespoons of water. Continue cooking until the liquid has completely evaporated, ensuring the beef is well-flavored. Next, mix in the chunky salsa, rinsed and drained black beans, drained fire-roasted corn, and an additional teaspoon of taco seasoning. Stir everything together until combined.
Step 4: Assembling and Baking
Transfer this delicious beef mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to form the first layer. Sprinkle 2 ½ cups of the Mexican cheese blend over the top of the beef mixture. Carefully arrange the frozen tater tots in a single, even layer over the cheese—there’s no need to thaw them! Finally, sprinkle the remaining teaspoon of taco seasoning evenly over the tater tots.
Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is bubbly in the center. Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining cheese over the tater tots. Broil for 1 to 3 minutes until the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly, watching it closely to prevent burning. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it as is, or with healthy toppings like fresh salsa, a dollop of Greek yogurt (instead of sour cream), or diced avocado.
How to Serve Mexican Tater Tot Casserole
Serve this casserole hot right out of the oven for the best flavor and texture. It makes a fantastic main dish paired with a simple green salad or your favorite corn tortilla chips. For extra flavor, consider adding toppings like jalapeños, cilantro, or olives.
How to Store Mexican Tater Tot Casserole
If you have leftovers (which is unlikely!), let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
Expert Tips for Perfect Mexican Tater Tot Casserole
- Ensure the ground beef is well-cooked and seasoned; it’s the base of flavor in this casserole.
- Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even use plant-based meat for a vegetarian version.
- Experiment with different cheese blends to change the flavor profile; pepper jack adds a nice kick!
- Use fresh vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, for added nutrition and flavor.
Delicious Variations
- For a spicier twist, include diced jalapeños in the meat mixture.
- Add a layer of cooked rice or quinoa for extra heartiness.
- Substitute sweet potato tater tots to give it a slight sweetness and unique flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and keep it in the fridge for 1-2 days before baking. -
What can I use instead of tater tots?
You can use French fries or potato wedges for a similar texture, or even mashed potatoes for a different take. -
Is it possible to freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! After preparing, cover it with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. -
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the ground beef with a mix of sautéed vegetables and beans. Use a meat substitute for added texture. -
What other toppings would you recommend?
Shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or sliced avocado can increase the freshness. Greek yogurt adds creaminess without the fat of sour cream.
Conclusion
Mexican Tater Tot Casserole is an easy, versatile dish that brings comfort food to a new level. Its fusion of flavors will delight your taste buds, while the crispy tater tops create a perfect contrast to the savory filling below. Try this recipe for your next family meal, and enjoy the smiles and satisfaction it brings around your dining table! You won’t regret it!
Print
Mexican Tater Tot Casserole
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A hearty and flavorful casserole packed with seasoned ground beef, beans, corn, and crispy tater tots, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 0.5 cup yellow onion, chopped
- 4 teaspoons taco seasoning, divided
- 1 cup chunky salsa
- 15 ounces black beans, rinsed and drained
- 15 ounces fire-roasted corn, drained
- 4 cups Mexican cheese blend, divided (16 ounces)
- 32 ounces frozen tater tots (2 pounds)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion for 5-6 minutes until the beef is no longer pink. Drain excess grease.
- Stir in 2 teaspoons of taco seasoning and 3 tablespoons of water, cooking until evaporated. Add salsa, beans, corn, and 1 teaspoon taco seasoning, mixing well.
- Transfer the beef mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly. Sprinkle 2.5 cups cheese over the mixture.
- Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top and sprinkle remaining taco seasoning. Bake for 40-45 minutes until the tots are golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, sprinkle remaining cheese on top, and broil for 1-3 minutes until melted. Let cool before serving.
Notes
Serve hot with optional toppings like fresh salsa, Greek yogurt, or diced avocado. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
