Taco Potato Casserole

This taco potato casserole combines seasoned ground beef with tender potatoes and a blend of cheese for a hearty, comfort food dinner. Simple to prepare and tested to work out perfectly in your home kitchen, it's an tasty weeknight dinner idea.

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Table of Contents

Taco Potato Casserole Ingredients
Mexican Hashbrown Casserole Substitutions and Additions
How To Make This Taco Potato Casserole Recipe
Troubleshooting
How To Serve Cheesy Potato Taco Casserole
How To Store
Why This Taco Potato Casserole Is The Best
Frequently Asked Questions
More Taco Recipes To Try
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This taco potato casserole combines hearty potatoes with seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, and gooey cheese, making it a satisfying and family-friendly dish. We’ve created a simple recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal.

At Spaceships and Laser Beams, we leverage our extensive culinary experience to deliver recipes that are both reliable and delicious. In every recipe we create, we provide you with step-by-step instructions and practical tips designed to make cooking straightforward so you can recreate this potato taco casserole with confidence and ease.

Our commitment to quality and authenticity shines through in every recipe we share. With years of experience in the kitchen, we focus on delivering meals that are not only tasty but also practical, giving you the assurance that this taco potato casserole will be a hit at your table.

Taco Potato Casserole Ingredients

Taco Potato Casserole raw ingredients that are labeled

You’ll love how easy and delicious this hash brown taco casserole is to make. This filling dish brings together two of our favorite things: the delicious flavors of tacos and the comfort of cheesy potatoes, creating a family favorite that’s perfect for any weeknight meal.

Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

1 pound lean ground beef
¾ cup diced sweet yellow onion (like a Vidalia)
30 ounce bag frozen shredded hash browns
2 cans Rotel Original diced tomatoes & green chilies
15 ounce can mild cheddar cheese sauce
2 ½ cups shredded colby jack cheese, divided (1 cup mixed into the hash brown mixture and 1 ½ cups to top the casserole)
2 (1 ounce) packets taco seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

Mexican Hashbrown Casserole Substitutions and Additions

If you need to adapt this taco potato casserole recipe, there are several easy substitutions and additions you can make. This is a great recipe to customize with your favorite add ins.

Keep in mind that any substitutions may alter the taste and texture, so use them at your discretion.

Ground Beef: Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Use a mixture of ground beef and pork for a juicier flavor. For a vegetarian version, you can use crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground meat alternative.

Frozen Shredded Hash Browns: If frozen hash browns are unavailable, you can shred fresh potatoes. Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture before using them in the recipe. You can also experiment with chopped regular hash browns or diced potatoes.

Rotel Original Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies: For a milder option, use the mild version of Rotel. Fire-roasted tomatoes are a delicious alternative. You can also replace it with regular diced tomatoes if you prefer less spice.

Cheddar Cheese Sauce: If you can’t find canned cheddar cheese sauce, use canned cheddar cheese soup or make a homemade cheese sauce.

Shredded Colby Jack Cheese: You can substitute this with a cheddar-jack blend, mild cheddar, or even mozzarella for a different cheesy flavor.

Taco Seasoning: If you don’t have packets, make your own using our easy taco seasoning recipe.

How To Make This Taco Potato Casserole Recipe

Preparing this taco hash brown casserole is straightforward and rewarding, and makes a comforting meal for your whole family.

The process involves simple cooking techniques that guarantee delicious results every time. Follow along with our simple, step-by-step guide and photos, and you’ll be enjoying this warm, cheesy dish with minimal fuss.

STEP ONE: Before you start, gather all your ingredients and measure them to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Preheat your oven and prepare a casserole dish by spraying it with non-stick olive oil cooking spray. This helps in easy removal of the casserole once baked.

PRO TIP: Organizing your ingredients and cooking tools before you begin cuts down on preparation time and makes your cooking process more efficient.

STEP TWO: In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, cook the lean ground beef and diced onions together. Allow the beef to brown and the onions to become tender, ensuring that no pink remains in the beef.

PRO TIP: Use a wooden spoon to break up the ground beef as it cooks.

lean ground beef and diced onions cooked in a skillet

STEP THREE: Once the beef mixture is thoroughly cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and drain the excess fat. This step is crucial for keeping your casserole from becoming too greasy.

PRO TIP: If you want to remove even more grease, you can place your ground beef into a colander and rinse it with hot water.

STEP FOUR: In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen shredded hash browns, cooked ground beef, Rotel diced tomatoes & green chilies, mild cheddar cheese sauce, 1 cup of shredded colby jack cheese, taco seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Use a large spoon to mix everything until well incorporated.

PRO TIP: Do not thaw the hash browns before adding, as using them frozen helps maintain the texture of the casserole.

frozen shredded hash browns, cooked ground beef, Rotel diced tomatoes & green chilies, mild cheddar cheese sauce, shredded colby jack cheese, taco seasoning, salt, and black pepper combined in a bowl

STEP FIVE: Transfer the potato mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading it into an even layer.

STEP SIX: Sprinkle the remaining 1 ½ cups of shredded colby jack cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.

PRO TIP: For an extra crispy top, you can broil the casserole for the last few minutes of baking.

shredded colby jack cheese topped over the casserole

STEP SEVEN: Bake the casserole until the top is golden and bubbly, and the edges start to pull away from the sides of the dish, indicating it is perfectly cooked.

STEP EIGHT: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest on the counter for a few minutes. This resting period allows the casserole to set, making it easier to serve neatly.

Troubleshooting

Our cheesy taco potato casserole recipe is a simple recipe, but just to ensure you don’t have any problems as you bake your flavorful dish, follow these helpful troubleshooting tips, compiled by our expert recipe developers and testers:

Chop Onions Evenly: Chop the sweet yellow onion into very small, even pieces to ensure they cook uniformly and blend well with the ground beef.
Combine Ingredients Gradually: When mixing the ingredients in the large bowl, add them gradually and mix in between to achieve a consistent blend.
Preheat Skillet: Ensure your skillet is properly preheated before adding the ground beef and onions so they sear in the pan. This will give your casserole the best flavor.
Avoid Overmixing: When combining the hash browns with other ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can cause the hash browns to break down too much.

How To Serve Cheesy Potato Taco Casserole

After preparing this delicious Mexican potato casserole recipe, you’ll want to serve it in a way that complements its rich, cheesy goodness and bold taco flavors.

Here are some ideas:

Classic Dinner: Serve the casserole straight from the oven with a side of fresh guacamole, salsa, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. The cool, creamy guacamole and zesty salsa balance the warmth and richness of the casserole and create a tasty and satisfying dinner.

Taco Bar Style: Turn your dinner into a fun taco bar by offering an array of toppings like diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, jalapeños, sour cream, and pico de gallo. Let everyone customize their servings with their favorite toppings.

Breakfast Burritos: Transform leftovers into breakfast burritos by wrapping a portion of the casserole in a warm tortilla with scrambled eggs and a bit of hot sauce.

Game Day Snack: For a crowd-pleasing game day snack, serve the casserole with tortilla chips. Encourage guests to scoop the casserole with the chips or spoon it onto the chips for a fun eating experience.

Side Dishes: Pair the casserole with a simple Caesar salad or a side of Mexican street corn. These sides add freshness and a bit of crunch.

Drinks: Serve with a cold beer, a margarita, or a refreshing iced tea.

Desserts: Follow the meal with a light dessert like churros with chocolate dipping sauce or fried cheesecake bites.

Taco Hashbrown Casserole is a versatile dish that fits perfectly at family dinner, but it’s a great dish for a casual evening with friends.

Use this recipe as a great way to spice up your taco night, or incorporate it into a Cinco de Mayo party menu along with other Mexican food favorites like bundt pan nachos and fiesta chicken.

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How To Store

Your ground beef and hash brown casserole needs to be stored properly so you can enjoy it again later. Here’s how you can make the most out of your leftovers or prepare it ahead of time for convenience.

MAKE AHEAD: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance. Follow the recipe up to the point of baking, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the cover and bake as directed, however, the texture of your potatoes might be different than if it was baked with frozen hashbrowns.

IN THE FRIDGE: Leftover casserole should be cooled completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container or cover the casserole dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep in the fridge for up to three days.

IN THE FREEZER: For longer storage, freeze your leftover casserole. Once it has cooled completely, wrap it tightly with a double layer of aluminum foil or transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to two months. To reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight.

HOW TO REHEAT: To reheat in the oven, preheat to 350°F and bake the refrigerated casserole for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. For a quicker option, individual portions can be reheated in the microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, or until hot.

Why This Taco Potato Casserole Is The Best

We’ve created this easy dish to be a winner with your family, and an easy recipe recipe that be become part of your regular dinner routine.

Our recipe testers are sure you’re going to love this tasty hash brown and ground beef casserole. Here’s why:

Easy to Make: This recipe involves simple steps any home cook can master, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights.

Hearty and Filling: With a combination of ground beef, hash browns, and cheese, this casserole is both satisfying and nourishing.

Great for Leftovers: This casserole tastes just as good the next day, making it perfect for meal prep and leftovers.

Crowd-Pleaser: The bold taco flavors and cheesy goodness make it a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes, you can use fresh potatoes. Shred them and make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture before adding them to the casserole.

How can I make this casserole spicier?

To add more heat, you can use hot Rotel tomatoes and green chilies, or add diced jalapeños to the mixture.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Yes, you can add vegetables like chopped green pepper, corn, or black beans to enhance the flavor and texture.

How do I know when the casserole is done baking?

The casserole is done when the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.

Can I make this recipe without meat?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with crumbled tofu or a meatless ground alternative.

How can I keep the edges of the casserole from burning?

To prevent the edges from burning, you can cover the casserole with foil for the first 20 minutes of baking, then remove the foil for the remaining time.

Is it okay to use canned tomatoes without chilies?

Yes, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can use regular canned diced tomatoes instead of Rotel with chilies.

This taco potato casserole brings together zesty taco flavors and hearty potatoes in an easy, crowd-pleasing dish. Enjoy a comforting, delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion!

a plate of Taco Potato Casserole with a fork

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Taco Potato Casserole

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Servings

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Ingredients

1 pound lean ground beef, 93%-7% blend
¾ cup diced sweet yellow onion, Vidalia onion
30 ounces frozen shredded hash browns
20 ounces Rotel Original diced tomatoes & green chilies (two 10-ounce cans)
15 ounces mild cheddar cheese sauce
2 ½ cups shredded Colby jack cheese, divided (1 cup mixed into the hash brown mixture and 1 ½ cups to top the casserole)
2 ounces taco seasoning (two 1-ounce packets)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Pre-heat oven to 400°F. Spray a 9×13 casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
Heat a 10-inch skillet on medium-high heat, then add the lean ground beef and diced sweet yellow onions. Cook and brown the ground beef for 6-8 minutes or until no pink remains. Remove the skillet from the heat. Drain the excess fat from the cooked ground beef.
To a very large mixing bowl, add the frozen shredded hash browns, cooked and drained ground beef, Rotel diced tomatoes & green chilies, mild cheddar cheese sauce, 1 cup shredded Colby jack cheese, taco seasoning, salt and black pepper. Using a large spoon, mix to combine all the ingredients together until evenly incorporated.
Transfer the hash brown mixture to the prepared 9×13 casserole dish and spread the mixture into an even layer.
Top the taco potato casserole with the remaining 1 ½ cups shredded Colby jack cheese.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the edges of the casserole are bubbly.
Remove the taco potato casserole from the oven and allow the casserole to rest on the counter for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Chop Onions Evenly: Chop the sweet yellow onion into very small, even pieces to ensure they cook uniformly and blend well with the ground beef.
Combine Ingredients Gradually: When mixing the ingredients in the large bowl, add them gradually and mix in between to achieve a consistent blend.
Preheat Skillet: Ensure your skillet is properly preheated before adding the ground beef and onions so they sear in the pan. This will give your casserole the best flavor.
Avoid Overmixing: When combining the hash browns with other ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can cause the hash browns to break down too much.

Nutrition

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Proudly Prepared by the Spaceships Kitchen

This recipe was developed, tested, cooked and photographed by the Spaceships Kitchen. From our dinner table to yours, we hope you think it's out of this world!

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Layne Kangas Marketing
Lenore Ortyl Editorial Director
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Taco Potato Casserole

Taco Potato Casserole Ingredients

Mexican Hashbrown Casserole Substitutions and Additions

How To Make This Taco Potato Casserole Recipe

Troubleshooting

How To Serve Cheesy Potato Taco Casserole

Beef Enchilada Recipe

Mexican Casserole

How To Store

Why This Taco Potato Casserole Is The Best

Frequently Asked Questions

More Taco Recipes To Try