Taco and Tater Tot Casserole: A Delicious and Easy Weeknight Meal
If you’re looking for a hearty and flavorful meal that is quick and easy to make, look no further than the Taco and Tater Tot Casserole. This dish combines the classic flavors of tacos with the crispy goodness of tater tots, resulting in a crowd-pleasing dinner option that the whole family will love.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 can diced tomatoes, drained
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
– 1 bag frozen tater tots
– Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped green onions, sliced jalapenos
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic, and cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Drain any excess grease from the skillet, then stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, and black beans. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Transfer the taco meat mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the taco mixture.
6. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.
7. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
8. Once the casserole is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
9. Serve the Taco and Tater Tot Casserole with optional toppings like sour cream, chopped green onions, and sliced jalapenos.
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings, and the estimated cooking time is around 45 minutes (including preparation and baking). Enjoy this delicious and comforting meal that brings together the best of both tacos and tater tots!