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Taco Tater Tot Casserole

Course: Main Dish
Cuisine:
American
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
40 minutes
Total Time:
1 hour
Servings:
8

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef, preferably 85% lean
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 1 medium red pepper (optional), finely diced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 4 ounces canned green chiles
  • 1 ounce (or 2-3 tbsp) taco seasoning, packaged or homemade blend
  • 15 ounces black beans, rinsed & drained
  • 10 ounces frozen corn
  • 3 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
  • 10 ounces red enchilada sauce
  • 32 ounces frozen tater tots

Garnishing Suggestions:

  • Fresh cilantro
  • Creamy sour cream
  • Ripe tomatoes
  • Flavorful guacamole
  • Sliced olives
  • Chopped green onions
  • Tangy hot sauce

Instructions:

  1. Adjust the oven rack to the center and preheat to 400°F (204°C). Prep your baking dish with a non-stick spray.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together taco seasoning ingredients until well-blended.
  3. Using a large skillet, sauté beef, onions, and red peppers. Crumble the beef while sautéing and stir in garlic towards the end. Drain any excess fat.
  4. Integrate green chiles, taco seasoning, beans, corn, and half the cheese into the beef mix. Ensure even mixing.
  5. Transfer the meaty mixture into the baking dish. Drizzle the enchilada sauce evenly, then layer tater tots atop.
  6. Bake until tater tots turn a crispy golden hue (around 30-40 minutes). Sprinkle the remaining cheese and bake for another 2-3 minutes for a melty finish.

Notes:

  • For ultra-crunchy tots, pre-bake them for 10 minutes as per their package before adding to the casserole.
  • Opt for lean ground beef, ideally 85% or leaner.
  • Consider crafting your taco seasoning; it’s economical, healthier, and tastier. This dish typically requires 2-3 tbsp.
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