Description
This Cheesy Taco Potato Casserole is a hearty and flavorful Tex-Mex dish featuring seasoned ground beef, crispy hash brown potatoes, and a creamy blend of cheddar cheese soup and sour cream. Baked to bubbly perfection and topped with melted Mexican blend cheese, it makes an easy and satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Seasoning
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup chopped onion
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Main Components
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen diced hash brown potatoes
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cheddar cheese soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1½ cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided
Garnish (Optional)
- Chopped green onions or cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the chopped onions until the beef is browned and onions are tender. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Season Beef: Stir in the taco seasoning and ½ cup water. Simmer the mixture for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing it to thicken and develop more flavor.
- Mix Casserole Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the frozen diced hash brown potatoes, condensed cheddar cheese soup, sour cream, garlic powder, black pepper, 1 cup of shredded Mexican blend cheese, and the seasoned beef mixture. Stir everything together until fully incorporated.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Spread the combined mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish to ensure even cooking.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded Mexican blend cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes until it is hot, bubbly, and the cheese is melted and golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro if desired, and serve warm for a delicious and comforting meal.
Notes
- For added spice, mix in chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the casserole mixture before baking.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter variation.
- Leftovers reheat well and make a great next-day lunch option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
