Description
This Mexican tater tot casserole is a cozy, layered dish combining golden crispy tater tots, savory seasoned protein, beans, and melty cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or anytime comfort food is needed. Easily customizable for vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef, chicken, or meat substitute
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 packet taco seasoning or 2 tsp homemade blend
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar + Monterey Jack)
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: cilantro, diced tomatoes, sour cream, guacamole, jalapeños
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook protein and onions until fully cooked. Stir in taco seasoning.
- Add beans, corn, and diced tomatoes; cook 2–3 minutes. Adjust seasoning.
- Spread filling evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheese over the filling. Arrange tater tots in a single layer on top.
- Bake 30–35 minutes until cheese is melted and tots are golden. Cover with foil if tots brown too fast.
- Garnish with optional toppings and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra crispy tots, partially bake before layering.
- This casserole is perfect for make-ahead meals—assemble the night before and bake fresh.
- Adjust spice levels according to family preference.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Oven-baked
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 55mg