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.
Equipment
- 1 9x13 inch Baking Dish
- 1 Large Mixing Spoon or Spatula for stirring ingredients
- 1 Chef's knife for cutting Velveeta and scallions
- 1 Cutting Board for prep work
- 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 jalapeños 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 jalapeños and cilantro leaves.
Notes
While the recipe calls for scattering raw ground beef, for a deeper flavor profile and to reduce excess grease, consider browning the beef separately before adding it to the casserole. Ensure hash browns are evenly spread to promote even cooking and crispness. The combination of processed cheese for creaminess and shredded Cheddar for sharp flavor and stretch is key to this casserole's texture. Don't skip the cooling time; it allows the casserole to set, making it easier to serve. Fresh garnishes like cilantro, scallion greens, and sour cream are crucial for adding a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory bake.