Taco Potato Casserole
This hearty Taco Potato Casserole features layers of seasoned ground meat, tender potatoes, and melted cheese, topped with a crunchy tortilla chip finish. Enjoy bold, Mexican-inspired flavors in a comforting, one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
Main Components:
- Potatoes: 4-5 medium potatoes peeled and diced (or shredded for a softer texture)
- Ground Meat: 1 lb ground beef or turkey for a vegetarian twist, use black or pinto beans
- Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack for a creamier taste
- Tortilla Chips or Taco Shells: Crushed or Monterey Jack for a creamier taste for a satisfying, crunchy topping
Flavor Enhancers:
- Taco Seasoning: 1 packet or homemade blend cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika
- Onion: 1 medium finely chopped
- Bell Peppers: 1-2 diced (choose your favorite color for extra visual appeal)
- Salsa or Taco Sauce: 1 cup for a burst of zesty flavor
- Milk or Cream: 1/2 cup to achieve a creamy consistency
Finishing Touches:
- Fresh Cilantro: A handful roughly chopped, for garnish
- Optional Extras: A dollop of sour cream avocado slices, or jalapeños for an extra kick
Instructions
Preheat & Prep:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare your ingredients: peel and dice (or shred) the potatoes, finely chop the onion, and dice the bell peppers. Having everything ready makes the process smooth and stress-free.
Cook the Filling:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground meat until it’s fully cooked. If you’re opting for a vegetarian version, gently sauté the beans with a bit of oil.
- Add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, mixing well to evenly coat the meat and veggies. This step ensures every bite is infused with bold, Mexican-inspired flavors.
Combine & Layer:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced or shredded potatoes with your prepared salsa/taco sauce and milk or cream. This creates a creamy, well-seasoned base for the casserole.
- In a greased baking dish, layer the potato mixture evenly.
- Spoon the cooked meat mixture over the potato layer, ensuring an even distribution.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese, followed by a generous sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips or taco shells for that satisfying crunch.
Bake to Perfection:
- Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Check for doneness by ensuring the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If desired, add an extra 5 minutes for a golden, crispy top.
Finishing Touches:
- Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, and if you like, add a dollop of sour cream, avocado slices, or a few jalapeños to enhance the flavor profile.