If you love comfort food with a bold, flavorful twist, this Mexican Tater Tot Casserole is about to become your new go-to dinner. Imagine crispy tater tots sitting on top of a cheesy, savory beef filling, infused with all the best Tex-Mex flavors. Each bite is a mix of crunchy, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just want leftovers that actually get better the next day, this dish has your back. Trust me, you’re going to love it!
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Why You’ll Love Mexican Tater Tot Casserole
Easy & Quick: Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this perfect for busy nights.
One-Pan Wonder: Everything bakes in one dish, making cleanup a breeze.
Loaded with Flavor: A delicious balance of spice, cheese, and crispy potatoes.
Great for Leftovers: Reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep.
Customizable: Adjust the spice level, swap in different proteins, or add extra veggies!
Ingredients in Mexican Tater Tot Casserole
Ground Beef: The hearty base of the casserole, packed with protein and flavor.
Taco Seasoning: Brings all those classic Mexican flavors—smoky, spicy, and a little zesty.
Black Beans: Adds extra heartiness and fiber to the dish.
Corn Kernels: Sweet and juicy, they balance out the savory ingredients perfectly.
Rotel Tomatoes: A mix of diced tomatoes and green chilies for a little kick.
Cheese: Melty, gooey goodness—cheddar or a Mexican blend works best.
Tater Tots: The crispy, golden topping that takes this dish to the next level.
Sour Cream (Optional): Adds a creamy contrast when served on top.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
How to Make Mexican Tater Tot Casserole
Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess grease.
Season It Up: Stir in taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and Rotel tomatoes. Let everything simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
Assemble the Casserole: Spread the beef mixture evenly in a baking dish. Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
Top with Tater Tots: Arrange the tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.
Bake Until Golden: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-35 minutes, or until the tots are crispy and golden brown.
Serve & Enjoy: Let the casserole cool slightly, then serve with sour cream, fresh cilantro, or avocado slices!
How to Serve Mexican Tater Tot Casserole
With a Side Salad: A crisp green salad balances the richness of the casserole.
Topped with Guacamole: Adds a fresh, creamy contrast to the crunchy tots.
Extra Cheese & Hot Sauce: For those who love an extra cheesy and spicy kick.
With Tortilla Chips: Scoop up the cheesy, beefy goodness for a fun twist.
Additional Tips
Make It Spicier: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
Swap the Protein: Use ground turkey or shredded chicken for a lighter version.
Add More Veggies: Bell peppers, onions, or zucchini blend in seamlessly.
Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole and refrigerate. Bake when ready!
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
FAQ
Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A1: Yes! Assemble it up to a day in advance, store in the fridge, and bake when ready.
Q2: Can I use frozen corn instead of canned?
A2: Absolutely! Just thaw it first, or add it frozen and let it cook in the oven.
Q3: What’s the best cheese for this casserole?
A3: A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack works great, but any melty cheese will do!
Q4: Can I freeze leftovers?
A4: Yes! Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Q5: How do I make this dish vegetarian?
A5: Swap the beef for extra beans, lentils, or a meat substitute like crumbled tofu.
Q6: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of Rotel?
A6: Yes! Just add diced fresh tomatoes and a small can of green chilies.
Q7: How do I get extra crispy tater tots?
A7: Bake the tots separately for 10 minutes before adding them on top, then bake again.
Q8: Can I add a sauce to this casserole?
A8: Try drizzling enchilada sauce or salsa over the beef layer for extra flavor.
Q9: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A9: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to keep the tots crispy.
Q10: Can I double the recipe?
A10: Yes! Use a larger baking dish and extend the cooking time slightly.
Final Thoughts
This Mexican Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate easy, cheesy, and satisfying dinner. It’s comforting, packed with flavor, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re making it for Taco Tuesday or just need a fun, hearty meal, this dish won’t disappoint. Give it a try—you’ll be hooked!
Print
Mexican Tater Tot Casserole
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This easy slow cooker Mexican casserole is packed with savory ground beef, black beans, corn, and crispy tater tots, all smothered in gooey melted cheese. A perfect comfort food recipe that’s great for weeknights or potlucks!
Ingredients
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1 lb ground beef
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1 packet taco seasoning
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1 cup water
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1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
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1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
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1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
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32 oz bag frozen tater tots
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Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions
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Prepare the Beef
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In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned.
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Drain excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning and water.
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Simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
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Assemble the Casserole
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In your slow cooker, layer the ground beef mixture.
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Sprinkle on the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes.
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Mix the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, then sprinkle half over the mixture.
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Add the Tater Tots
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Arrange the tater tots in a single layer on top.
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Slow Cook
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Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours.
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Final Touch
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About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining cheese over the tater tots.
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Cover and cook until the cheese is melted.
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Garnish & Serve
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Top with fresh cilantro, if desired, and serve warm!
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Notes
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For a vegetarian version, omit the beef and add extra beans or veggies.
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Add chopped jalapeños for spice.
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Swap ground turkey for a leaner option.
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Try low-fat cheese for a lighter version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 55mg