– 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
– 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained
– 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained
– 1 can (15 ounces) chili beans in sauce
– 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 bag (32 ounces) frozen tater tots
– Sour cream (for serving, optional)
– Green onions, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Creating this incredible Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole is easy if you follow these steps:
1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or turkey) until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Add Beans and Tomatoes: Stir in the kidney beans, black beans, chili beans, diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning. Mix well to combine the flavors.
4. Simmer: Let the mixture simmer for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. Layer the Casserole: In a large baking dish, spread the meat and bean mixture evenly across the bottom.
6. Add Cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the meat mixture, distributing it evenly.
7. Add Tater Tots: Layer the frozen tater tots on top of the cheese, ensuring they cover the entire surface.
8. More Cheese: Top the tater tots with the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
9. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
10. Cool Down: Once finished, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
11. Serve: Scoop out generous portions and serve hot, garnishing with sour cream and chopped green onions if desired.
By following these steps, you’ll create a tater tot casserole that is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying.