Description
The Mexican Tater Tot Casserole is a delightful fusion of classic comfort food with the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine. This hearty dish layers seasoned ground beef, black beans, and cheese, all topped with a crispy tater tot crust. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a warm, satisfying meal, it’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food, vegetarian, or looking for a gluten-free option, this casserole can be customized to delight your taste buds while providing a nutritious meal.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
2 lbs ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp Slap Ya Mama® seasoning
1 tsp garlic salt
1 tsp pepper
15 oz can green enchilada sauce
15 oz can black beans, drained, rinsed
10 oz can Rotel®
4 oz can diced green chiles
8 oz sour cream
2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
2 cups Sharp Cheddar, shredded
32 oz bag tater tots
Instructions
Preheat oven to 425°F and lightly spray a 13 x 9 baking pan with cooking spray. Set aside.
In a large cast-iron skillet, cook ground beef, onions, garlic, cumin, Slap Ya Mama® seasoning, garlic salt, and pepper over medium heat until beef is no longer pink and onions are translucent. Drain and return to skillet.
Stir in green enchilada sauce, black beans, Rotel®, green chiles, and sour cream.
Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle both types of cheese evenly over the top, then neatly arrange tater tots on top of the cheese.
Bake uncovered for approximately 45 minutes, or until tater tots are golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Remove from oven and serve hot.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This casserole can be assembled up to a day in advance, making it a convenient option for busy days. Just add the tater tots right before baking to keep them crispy.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your dietary needs or preferences. Vegetarian and gluten-free versions can be easily made with simple substitutions.
- Storage and Reheating: Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave, ensuring the dish remains just as delicious the next day.
- Nutritional Information: While this dish is packed with flavor, it’s also mindful of nutrition. Lean meat, low-fat dairy options, and the addition of beans and optional vegetables contribute to a balanced meal.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve this casserole with a side of green salad, cilantro lime rice, or refried beans for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or avocado slices for an extra touch of freshness.
- Spice Level: Easily adjustable. Add more green chiles, jalapeños, or a spicier enchilada sauce to tailor the heat to your liking.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by incorporating additional vegetables such as bell peppers, corn, or zucchini into the beef mixture.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: American