Mexican Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Mexican Tater Tot Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines crispy tater tots with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, salsa, and beans. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering.

Ingredients

• 1 bag of frozen tater tots (about 32 ounces)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1 cup salsa
• 1 can (15 ounces) beans, drained and rinsed (black beans or pinto beans)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Step 2: In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
3. Step 3: In a baking dish, spread the cooked ground beef evenly over the bottom.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle the drained beans evenly over the beef layer.
5. Step 5: Pour the salsa evenly over the beans and beef.
6. Step 6: Spread the tater tots in a single layer on top.
7. Step 7: Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the tater tots.
8. Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Step 9: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add diced onions and bell peppers to the ground beef while cooking.
• Use spicy salsa or add a pinch of chili powder for a kick of heat.
• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add a layer of corn or diced tomatoes for more texture and sweetness.

Storage

Store leftover casserole covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through and crisp on top. For best results, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to one day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh when you are ready to serve.

Can I use homemade salsa instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Homemade salsa works wonderfully and allows you to control the flavor and spice level to your preference.

Mexican Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 138 reviews

A hearty and indulgent Mexican Tater Tot Casserole featuring layers of crispy tater tots, seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, zesty salsa, and savory beans. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner that combines Tex-Mex flavors with classic comfort food.

• Author: Kai
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat and Beans

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed

Vegetables and Sauce

• 1 cup salsa (mild or spicy, based on preference)

Dairy

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Other

• 1 bag (32 ounces) frozen tater tots

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking and crisp tater tots.
2. Cook Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat.
3. Layer Ground Beef and Beans: Spread the cooked ground beef evenly in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the drained beans evenly over the beef layer.
4. Add Salsa and Cheese: Pour the salsa evenly over the beans and ground beef. Then, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the salsa.
5. Top with Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese, covering the entire surface.
6. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Final Cheese Layer: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup of cheese. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to melt the cheese completely.
8. Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm as a satisfying meal.

Notes

• You can customize this casserole with additional toppings like sour cream, chopped green onions, or sliced jalapeños.
• Use any type of beans you prefer such as black beans, pinto beans, or refried beans for different flavors and textures.
• For a spicier version, opt for a hot salsa or add chili powder and cumin to the ground beef while cooking.
• To make ahead, assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Keywords: Mexican Tater Tot Casserole, tater tot casserole, ground beef casserole, Tex-Mex casserole, easy dinner recipe