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Taco Potato Casserole

Perfect for busy weeknights, this mash-up bake of hash browns, ground beef, canned tomatoes and green chiles, taco seasoning and gooey cheese can't be beat. It's the ultimate hands off meal. And since everything's tossed together right in the baking dish, there's very little cleanup. Simply garnish with your favorite taco toppings and dinner is served. If you're lucky enough to have leftovers, try wrapping them in a tortilla for a quick burrito.
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course lunch/dinner
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 people
Calories 1309.9 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 9x13 inch Baking Dish
  • 1 Large Spoon or Spatula
  • 1 Sharp Chef's Knife
  • 1 Cutting Board
  • 1 Oven Mitts

Ingredients
  

Main

  • 30 ounces frozen shredded hash brown potatoes
  • 1 1/2 pounds 80/20 ground beef
  • Two 10-ounce cans diced tomatoes and green chiles such as Rotel
  • Two 1-ounce packages taco seasoning
  • 4 scallions thinly sliced, white and green parts separated
  • 8 ounces processed cheese such as Velveeta, cut into small cubes
  • 8 ounces shredded Cheddar about 2 cups
  • Sour cream guacamole, pickled jalapeƱos and fresh cilantro leaves, for serving

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
  • Scatter the hash browns in a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Pinch off pieces of ground beef and scatter on top of the potatoes. Top with the diced tomatoes and green chiles, taco seasoning and scallion whites. Scatter the processed cheese cubes over top. Bake until the ground beef is cooked through, about 45 minutes.
  • Remove from the oven and stir until well combined. Top with the Cheddar and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbling in some places, about 15 minutes.
  • Let cool for 10 minutes, then top with the scallion greens, sour cream, guacamole, pickled jalapeƱos and cilantro leaves.

Notes

For a richer flavor and texture, consider browning the ground beef separately before adding it to the casserole dish, draining any excess fat. This prevents a greasy final product and develops a deeper savory note. Ensure the hash browns are evenly distributed to cook through properly and prevent sticking. While the recipe uses processed cheese for a smooth melt, combining it with freshly shredded cheddar will enhance the cheesy pull and flavor. Don't skip the cooling time; it allows the casserole to set, making it easier to serve. Finally, the fresh toppings like cilantro, scallions, sour cream, and guacamole are crucial for balancing the richness and adding vibrant contrast.