Taco Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for any Tex-Mex enthusiast. Combining the heartiness of potatoes with the bold flavors of taco seasoning and savory ground beef, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for your next gathering, this recipe has got you covered. Plus, with its versatility and options for keto and low-carb variations, everyone can enjoy this delicious casserole.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs russet potatoes
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 oz taco seasoning
- 10 oz Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies
- 1/2 cup mild chunky salsa
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 10.5 oz cheddar soup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
- Prepare Potatoes: Peel the russet potatoes and cut them into 1/4-inch thick slices. Arrange the potato slices in a single layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the lean ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Aromatics: To the skillet with the cooked ground beef, add diced onion, diced green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning, Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, chunky salsa, frozen corn, and cheddar soup. Mix well to combine.
- Layer Casserole: Pour the ground beef mixture over the layer of potatoes in the baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Cheese Topping: Sprinkle shredded Mexican cheese blend over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator overnight. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and bake it when ready.
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to customize the toppings to suit your taste. You can add sliced black olives, diced jalapeños, or even a dollop of sour cream on top before serving.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, you can omit the ground beef and add an extra cup of your favorite vegetables such as diced zucchini or mushrooms.
- Keto and Low-Carb Variations:
- Keto Version: Substitute the potatoes with cauliflower florets for a low-carb alternative. Additionally, use a low-carb salsa and check the labels on the cheddar soup and taco seasoning to ensure they are keto-friendly.
- Low-Carb Version: Reduce the amount of potatoes or omit them altogether. Increase the amount of ground beef and vegetables to make up for the volume.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes? A: Yes, you can substitute sweet potatoes for russet potatoes if you prefer. Keep in mind that sweet potatoes have a sweeter flavor and may alter the taste slightly.
Q: How spicy is this casserole? A: The level of spiciness can be adjusted based on the taco seasoning and salsa you use. If you prefer a milder version, opt for mild taco seasoning and salsa. Conversely, if you like it spicy, choose hot varieties.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer individual portions to freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly with aluminum foil. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in the oven until heated through.
Taco Potato Casserole is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that brings together the flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine in a comforting casserole format. With its layers of potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and cheesy topping, it’s a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it with your favorite ingredients, this casserole is sure to be a hit at the dinner table. So gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try for a deliciously satisfying meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
