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Cheesy Tater Tot Cowboy Casserole

This cheesy tater tot cowboy casserole is pure comfort in a pan, combining hearty beef, melty cheese, and crispy tater tots for a filling meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Beef Mixture
  • 1 lb lean ground beef The main protein providing a hearty base.
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (1 oz) Can substitute with 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning.
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans Drained and rinsed.
  • 1 cup frozen corn Thawed.
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup Can be substituted with cream of mushroom soup.
  • 1/2 cup milk Use whole milk or 2% milk.
  • 1/4 cup sour cream Adds creaminess to the filling.
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Topping
  • 8 oz shredded cheddar cheese Divided; about 2 cups.
  • 16 oz frozen tater tots Divided; about 4 cups.
  • 1 spray cooking spray For greasing the baking dish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until no pink remains, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain the fat.
  3. Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for about 2 more minutes.
  4. Add the black beans, corn, cream of chicken soup, 1/2 cup cheddar, milk, sour cream, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until well combined and warmed through.
Assembly
  1. Arrange half of the tater tots in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
  2. Spoon the beef mixture evenly over the tater tots.
  3. Add the remaining tater tots in a single layer on top and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top.
Cooking
  1. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, until tater tots are golden brown and cheese melts.
  2. If necessary, bake a few additional minutes for a crispy top.
Serving
  1. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve with extra sour cream, if desired.

Notes

Great for chilly nights, potlucks, and make-ahead meals. Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven.