Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef (lean)
- 1 package taco seasoning (your preferred brand or low-sodium option)
- 1 can corn, drained (sweet corn preferred)
- 1 can nacho cheese soup (adds creamy, cheesy flavor)
- 32 oz bag frozen tater tots (do not thaw)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for extra gooeyness)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking.
2. Brown the Meat:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula until it is fully browned (about 7-10 minutes). Ensure there is no pink meat left.
3. Drain the Fat:
- Carefully drain the excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish less greasy.
4. Add Taco Seasoning:
- Reduce the heat to low, and sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked meat. Stir to coat the meat evenly and cook for another 2-3 minutes for the seasoning to blend in.
5. Mix in Corn and Soup:
- Add the drained corn and nacho cheese soup to the skillet. Stir everything together, heating for an additional 1-2 minutes until well combined.
6. Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Pour the meat mixture into the dish and spread it evenly.
7. Add Tater Tots:
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the meat mixture, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
8. Bake the Casserole:
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 45 minutes, until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
9. Add Cheese and Finish Baking:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the tater tots. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Serving:
- Let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes after removing it from the oven to help everything set. Serve hot with a side of sour cream or a green salad if desired.
Tips:
- Variations: Add black beans or diced green chilies for extra flavor and texture.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge or frozen for up to a month.
This easy and delicious casserole is perfect for a comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table! Enjoy!