Description
This Mexican Tater Tot Casserole is a hearty and flavorful one-dish meal combining seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, and enchilada sauce with crispy baked tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. Garnished with fresh cilantro and sour cream, it offers a comforting, cheesy twist on classic Tex-Mex flavors, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Mixture
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 green chilli, sliced
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained (15 oz)
- 3 cups frozen corn
- 1 can red enchilada sauce (10 oz)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Topping & Garnish
- 4 cups frozen tater tots
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Cilantro, to garnish
- Sour cream, to garnish
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, 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, sliced green chilli, rinsed black beans, frozen corn, and red enchilada sauce. Stir to combine well. Continue to cook for another 8-10 minutes over medium heat so that the flavors meld. Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and mix gently until evenly distributed.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the beef mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Arrange the frozen tater tots in an even layer on top of the beef mixture.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crisp.
- Add More Cheese: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.
- Garnish & Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream. Serve hot.
Notes
- For a spicier casserole, add extra green chilis or jalapeños.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Try adding diced bell peppers or chopped tomatoes for extra veggies.
- Make sure to drain excess fat from cooked beef for a less greasy dish.
- The casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
