Description
Mexican-inspired Taco Potato Casserole blends hearty comfort with zesty southwestern flavors in one irresistible dish. Layers of crispy potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and melted cheese create a crowd-pleasing meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or ground turkey
Seasonings and Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 packet (28g) taco seasoning mix
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup salsa or diced tomatoes (optional, for extra flavor)
Dairy and Cheese:
- 1 can (298g) condensed cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom)
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Potato and Garnish:
- 1 bag (850g) frozen diced hash brown potatoes, thawed
- ¼ cup diced green onions (for garnish)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare workspace by warming oven to 350F (175C) and lightly coating a 9×13-inch baking vessel with cooking spray.
- Transform ground beef into crumbly texture by sautéing in large skillet over medium heat, carefully eliminating excess grease.
- Infuse beef with robust taco seasoning, incorporating water and allowing mixture to simmer until it reaches a thickened consistency.
- Craft creamy base by whisking condensed cream soup with sour cream, blending thoroughly with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Incorporate thawed hash brown potatoes and seasoned beef into the velvety mixture, gently folding ingredients until uniformly distributed.
- Transfer potato-beef medley into prepared baking dish, ensuring even layer and topping with remaining cheese for golden coverage.
- Nestle casserole in preheated oven, allowing it to bake approximately 45-50 minutes until edges bubble and cheese transforms into molten golden crust.
- Elevate presentation by scattering fresh green onions and cilantro across surface, optional salsa or diced tomatoes can amplify flavor profile.
- Serve immediately, accompanied by complementary garnishes like additional sour cream, guacamole, or zesty salsa to enhance dining experience.
Notes
- Choose lean ground beef to reduce fat content and create a healthier version of the casserole.
- Substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter protein option that works perfectly with the taco seasoning.
- Swap regular potatoes with sweet potatoes to add more nutrients and create a slightly different flavor profile that complements the taco seasonings.
- Customize the spice level by adjusting the taco seasoning or using homemade seasoning blend to control sodium and heat intensity for different taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg