Looking for an easy, delicious dinner that the whole family will love?
This Tater Tot Casserole is a fantastic choice! It combines ground beef, flavorful spices, creamy sour cream, and melty cheese—all topped with crispy tater tots.
Plus, it’s a great way to use up pantry staples.
Let’s dive into this simple recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef: The star of the dish. Ground beef provides a hearty base and savory flavor.
- 1 chopped onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
- 1/2 tsp each of salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors.
- 1 tsp each of cumin and dried cilantro: These spices add a lovely, aromatic quality.
- 2 tsp chili powder: Gives a bit of a kick and a lot of flavor.
- 1/4 tsp cayenne: Adds heat; adjust according to your preference.
- 1 can corn (drained): For a touch of sweetness and texture.
- 1 can Rotel Diced Tomatoes & Green Chiles (not drained): Adds a zesty, slightly spicy element.
- 1 cup sour cream: Provides creaminess and tang.
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds richness.
- Tater Tots or Crispy Crowns: The crispy, golden topping that everyone loves.
- Buffalo Wild Wings Southwest Ranch: For a flavorful, zesty finish.
Instructions
- Cook the Beef and Onion
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is tender, breaking up the meat with a spoon as it cooks. - Season the Beef
Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess grease. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, dried cilantro, chili powder, and cayenne. Stir well to combine. If you prefer a simpler option, you can use a taco seasoning packet instead of these individual spices. - Combine Ingredients
Stir in the drained corn and the can of Rotel (don’t drain). Add the sour cream and about 1 cup of shredded Colby Jack cheese. Mix everything together until well combined. - Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the beef mixture into a baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Top with the remaining cup of shredded Colby Jack cheese. Arrange the tater tots or crispy crowns on top in a single layer. - Bake
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake the casserole for about 35 minutes, or until the tater tots are cooked to your liking and crispy. For an extra crispy topping, you can broil the casserole for a few minutes at the end. - Finish and Serve
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven. Drizzle with Buffalo Wild Wings Southwest Ranch for an extra layer of flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Adjust the Heat: If you want to cut down on the heat, omit the cayenne pepper and use mild Rotel.
- Tater Tots Variations: You can use either tater tots or crispy crowns based on your preference. Both will work well and add that satisfying crunch.
- Mix It Up: Feel free to add other vegetables or ingredients that your family loves. Bell peppers, mushrooms, or even a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs can be great additions.
This Tater Tot Casserole is a great way to make a hearty, satisfying meal that’s sure to please both kids and adults.
Give it a try and let me know how it turns out!