Crispy tater tots, cheesy taco-seasoned beef, and a creamy, savory filling make this Taco Tater Tot Casserole an easy, family-favorite dinner!
Let me tell you something—I grew up in a house where casseroles were basically a love language. If it was baked in a 9×13 dish and could feed an army, my mom was making it. But this Taco Tater Tot Casserole? This one happened by accident.
It all started on a random weeknight when tacos were on the menu, but I had zero energy to deal with tortillas falling apart, toppings scattered across the table, and the inevitable “my taco broke!” meltdown from my kids. I needed something easier. That’s when I spotted a bag of tater tots in the freezer and thought, what if tacos and tater tots had a baby?
The first time I made it, I threw it together on a whim, expecting it to be fine—but ohhh, it was so much more than fine. It was cheesy, crispy, creamy, and packed with that taco kick we all love. My family devoured it, and now? It’s one of those can-you-make-it-again-tonight? kind of meals.
Why You’ll Love This Taco Tater Tot Casserole Recipe?
- A one-dish wonder – No need for multiple pots and pans.
- Perfect for busy nights – 10 minutes of prep, then the oven does the work!
- Crispy, cheesy, taco goodness – Every bite is loaded with flavor.
- Kid-approved (and picky-eater proof!) – Tater tots make everything better.
- Great for leftovers – If you somehow don’t eat the whole thing in one sitting.
Ingredient Notes:
This casserole is proof that simple ingredients = pure magic. Here’s why each one matters:
- Ground Beef – The heart of the taco filling. Swap for ground turkey or shredded chicken if you like.
- Taco Seasoning – Because tacos without seasoning? Not happening.
- Diced Tomatoes & Green Chiles – Adds a little tang and a hint of spice.
- Cheddar Cheese Soup – Makes everything creamy and extra cheesy.
- Sour Cream – Balances the bold flavors and makes it ultra-smooth.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – More cheese? Yes, please.
- Frozen Tater Tots – Crispy, golden perfection on top!
Pro Tip: Want even crispier tater tots? Bake them separately for 15 minutes before adding them to the casserole. Game changer.
How To Make Taco Tater Tot Casserole?
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish—trust me, you don’t want to skip this step.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns. Once it’s fully cooked and no longer pink, drain the excess grease.
Step 3: Add the Taco Flavor
Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, green chiles, and water. Let it simmer for 5 minutes so all those flavors can really blend together.
Step 4: Mix It All Together
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In a large bowl, combine the beef mixture, shredded cheese, cheddar cheese soup, sour cream, and frozen tater tots. Give it a good stir so every bite has that cheesy, taco-packed goodness.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden & Crispy
Spread the mixture evenly into your baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes until it’s hot, bubbly, and the tater tots are golden brown.
Step 6: Dig In!
Let it rest for a few minutes (I know, the waiting is painful). Then serve it up with your favorite toppings like sour cream, salsa, or guacamole!
Pro Tip: Want extra crunch? Pop it under the broiler for the last 5 minutes for perfectly crispy tots!
Storage Options:
This casserole reheats like a dream (if you have leftovers, that is).
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350ºF until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Variations and Substitutions:
This casserole is super versatile! Here are a few ways to switch things up:
- Spicy Version – Add jalapeños, extra chili powder, or hot sauce for more heat.
- Different Meats – Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even chorizo.
- Vegetarian Option – Use black beans or lentils instead of meat.
- Extra Veggies – Throw in some bell peppers, onions, or corn for extra texture.
What to Serve with Taco Tater Tot Casserole?
While this is a full meal on its own, here are some tasty sides to make it even better:
- Side Salad – A fresh lime-cilantro slaw is the perfect contrast.
- Mexican Rice – Because carbs on carbs is never a bad idea.
- Refried Beans – A classic Tex-Mex side.
- Guacamole & Chips – Because, well… it’s guac.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate up to a day in advance. Bake as usual when ready!
Can I use homemade taco seasoning?
Of course! A mix of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder does the trick.
Can I air fry the tater tots first for extra crispiness?
YES! If you love crunchy tots, air fry them first before adding them to the casserole.
Ready to Try This?
If you love tacos, cheese, and crispy tater tots, this Taco Tater Tot Casserole is a must-make. It’s easy, comforting, and packed with bold Tex-Mex flavors that your whole family will love.
Are you making this tonight? Let me know in the comments how it turns out—I’d love to hear!
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Keep the Flavor Coming – Try These:
Taco Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds lean ground beef
- 1 1-ounce package taco seasoning
- 1 10-ounce can diced tomatoes and green chiles, undrained
- ⅓ c water
- 1 10.5-ounce can condensed cheddar cheese soup
- 1 16-ounce container sour cream
- 2 c shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 32-ounce package frozen tater tots
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Heat a skillet, over high heat. Add 1½ pounds of ground beef and cook using a spatula to break it apart until fully browned and no longer pink. Remember to drain any fat.
- To the skillet add the 1-ounce package of taco seasoning, the diced tomatoes and green chiles from a 10-ounce can and ⅓ cup of water. Stir everything together. Let it simmer for 5 minutes until well combined and heated through.
- In a mixing bowl combine the beef mixture with 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, the frozen tater tots from a 32-ounce package the condensed cheddar cheese soup, from a 10.5-ounce can and the entire container of sour cream (16 ounces). Mix everything thoroughly until evenly distributed.
- Spread the beef and tot mixture evenly in the baking dish.
- Place the dish in your oven. Bake for about 45 to 50 minutes.
- Make sure you aim for a crispy top while ensuring that the casserole is hot and bubbly all the way through.
- After baking take the casserole out of the oven. Allow it to rest for a few minutes. Then cut it into slices, serve it and savor your delicious homemade Taco Tater Tot Casserole!
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
One Response
Very easy to make. My Great greatgrandchildren loved it. We will have this again soon.