Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
1 package (32 oz) frozen tater tots
1/2 cup diced onions (optional)
Sour cream, for serving (optional)
Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onions over medium heat until the meat is browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, and corn. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
Spread the meat mixture evenly in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the meat mixture.
Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the tater tots are crispy and golden brown.
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese over the top and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Top with sour cream and chopped cilantro, if desired.
Variations & Tips
For a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef, and use low-fat cheese. If you enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. You can also mix in some chopped bell peppers or zucchini for added veggies. For a vegetarian option, simply skip the meat and double up on the beans or add some cooked quinoa for extra protein.
