- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the taco seasoning to the skillet and stir to coat the beef evenly.
- Stir in the black beans, corn, and salsa until well combined. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
- Transfer the beef mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
- Arrange the tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese, covering the entire surface of the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with your favorite toppings, if desired, and enjoy!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Skillet
- Mixing spoon
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Cooking spray
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though they’re unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions until warmed through, or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.
Food and Drink Pairings
Victory’s Taco Tater Tot Casserole pairs perfectly with a refreshing Mexican-inspired beverage, such as a classic margarita or a cold bottle of Mexican beer. For sides, consider serving it with a simple green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette or some freshly-made guacamole and chips.
FAQ
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if the casserole is cold from the refrigerator.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef if you prefer. You can also make it vegetarian by omitting the meat altogether and adding extra beans and vegetables.
Can I customize the toppings?
Of course! The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to customize the toppings to suit your taste preferences or use whatever you have on hand. Get creative and make it your own!
Conclusion
Victory’s Taco Tater Tot Casserole is a fun and flavorful twist on traditional tacos, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With its layers of taco-spiced beef, black beans, corn, cheese, and crispy tater tots, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So why wait? Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious dinner that’s sure to bring smiles to everyone at the table. Don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends and subscribe to our blog for more tasty recipes and culinary inspiration!
