This Crockpot Tex Mex Tater Tot Casserole is a fun twist on comfort food! With crispy tater tots, zesty chili, and cheesy goodness, it’s a dish everyone will love.
I mean, who can resist tater tots? They’re like little bites of happiness! I often serve this with a side salad for a simple dinner that makes my family smile. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Turkey: I usually opt for ground turkey for a lighter option. If you prefer a plant-based meal, use lentils or textured vegetable protein instead. Both options add great texture!
Onion: Diced yellow onion works well, but red onion adds a nice sweetness. If you need a substitute, leeks or shallots are great alternatives too.
Bell Pepper: While I love using red bell pepper for its sweetness, green bell pepper provides a slight bitterness that some enjoy. You can also use poblano peppers for a mild kick.
Canned Black Beans: If black beans aren’t your favorite, kidney beans or pinto beans can be switched in. Just remember to rinse them well!
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought is convenient, but homemade can be tastier! Combine chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika for a quick blend. This makes it easy to adjust flavors to your liking.
Tater Tots: If you want a healthier spin, you can use sweet potato tater tots or even diced and roasted sweet potatoes. Just keep an eye on cooking time, as they may vary!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor While Cooking Meat?
Browning the meat properly enhances the flavor significantly. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use medium heat for a nice, even cook without burning.
- Let the meat sit in the skillet without moving it too much. This allows a nice crust to form.
- Don’t forget to drain the excess fat after browning to avoid a greasy casserole.
These simple steps can greatly boost the taste of your casserole!
How to Make Crockpot Tex Mex Tater Tot Casserole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Casserole:
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 ounce)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups frozen tater tots
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time and cooks in your crockpot for 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. Enjoy the wonderful smell while it cooks—you won’t be able to resist!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook it until it’s fully browned. Make sure to break it apart with a spoon while it’s cooking. Once it’s done, drain any excess fat before moving on to the next step.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
Next, add the diced onion and bell pepper to the same skillet. Sauté them for about 3-5 minutes or until they become soft and fragrant. This adds great flavor to your dish!
3. Combine Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to mix in the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes (don’t forget the juice!). Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, and give everything a good stir. Taste it and add salt and pepper according to your liking.
4. Layer in the Crockpot:
Transfer the mixture from the skillet to your crockpot, spreading it evenly across the bottom. This will be the delicious base for your casserole.
5. Add Cheese and Tater Tots:
Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the meat and vegetable mixture, then arrange the frozen tater tots on top of the cheese. This makes for a nice crispy layer once cooked!
6. Top with More Cheese:
Finally, add the remaining cheddar cheese on top of the tater tots. Yum! This will create a cheesy, gooey goodness.
7. Cook and Enjoy:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The tater tots should be crispy and golden brown when it’s done. Once ready, scoop out a portion, serve warm, and enjoy your Tex Mex Tater Tot Casserole!
Feel free to get creative with toppings or spices according to your taste. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef. Just make sure to brown it thoroughly in the skillet, just as you would the beef. It may be slightly leaner, so consider adding a bit of olive oil if you find it too dry.
What Can I Substitute for Black Beans?
If you don’t have black beans on hand, you can easily replace them with pinto beans or kidney beans. They’ll provide a similar texture and flavor profile. Drain and rinse them as you would the black beans before adding them to the casserole.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If you notice the tater tots are a bit less crispy, you can pop them under the broiler for a couple of minutes to refresh them!
