This Loaded Taco Tater Tot Casserole is a bold and flavorful fusion of two comfort food classics: tacos and tater tots. Packed with seasoned ground beef, black beans, sweet corn, and plenty of cheese, this casserole brings the zesty spirit of Taco Tuesday to your dinner table in a fun, hearty way.
The crispy golden tater tots serve as a perfect topping, offering a satisfying crunch in every bite. Easy to prepare and loved by kids and adults alike, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where comfort food is a must. Best of all, it’s customizable with your favorite taco toppings like sour cream, jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or avocado. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want leftovers for tomorrow, this dish delivers flavor, texture, and satisfaction in every layer.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or canned and drained)
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel style)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for serving)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional for garnish)
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1/4 cup diced tomatoes (optional topping)
- 1 small avocado, diced (optional topping)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or a little oil for greasing the dish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or oil.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped onion for 2–3 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the taco seasoning along with a splash of water (about 1/4 cup). Mix well and simmer for 2–3 minutes until the beef is fully seasoned.
- Add the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies into the skillet. Stir everything to combine and let it heat through for about 2 minutes. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
- Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly across the bottom.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the meat mixture to create a cheesy layer.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese. You can line them neatly for a prettier presentation or just spread them over evenly.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the tater tots are crispy and golden brown.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese over the top. Return to the oven for 5 more minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once out of the oven, let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes serving easier.
- Garnish with your favorite toppings like sour cream, green onions, black olives, diced tomatoes, or avocado.