Description
This Cheesy Taco Potato Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish combining seasoned ground beef, tender hash brown potatoes, and a creamy blend of cheddar cheese soup, sour cream, and Mexican blend cheese. Baked to perfection with a golden cheesy topping and garnished with fresh green onions or cilantro, it makes a filling and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 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
- 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
- Chopped green onions or cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking.
- Cook Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onions until the beef is browned and the onions are tender. Drain any excess fat to avoid greasiness.
- Season Beef: Add the taco seasoning and ½ cup water to the skillet, then simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to thicken the sauce and enhance the flavors.
- 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 thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Spread the combined mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish to promote 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 baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the cheese on top has melted and turned golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven. Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro as desired. Serve warm for a delicious, comforting meal.
Notes
- For extra heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the beef mixture.
- Use low-fat sour cream and reduced-fat cheese for a lighter version.
- You can prepare the beef mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it to save time.
- Make sure to thaw the frozen hash browns slightly for even cooking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cheesy casserole, taco casserole, potato casserole, ground beef casserole, baked casserole, comfort food
