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A warm taco potato casserole in a rustic ceramic dish with layers of diced potatoes, seasoned ground meat, melted cheddar cheese, and crunchy tortilla chips, garnished with cilantro and salsa.

Taco Potato Casserole

This hearty Taco Potato Casserole features layers of seasoned ground meat, tender potatoes, and melted cheese, topped with a crunchy tortilla chip finish. Enjoy bold, Mexican-inspired flavors in a comforting, one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 People
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Contemporary Comfort Food, Mexican-Inspired
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

Main Components:
  • Potatoes: 4-5 medium potatoes peeled and diced (or shredded for a softer texture)
  • Ground Meat: 1 lb ground beef or turkey for a vegetarian twist, use black or pinto beans
  • Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack for a creamier taste
  • Tortilla Chips or Taco Shells: Crushed or Monterey Jack for a creamier taste for a satisfying, crunchy topping
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Taco Seasoning: 1 packet or homemade blend cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika
  • Onion: 1 medium finely chopped
  • Bell Peppers: 1-2 diced (choose your favorite color for extra visual appeal)
  • Salsa or Taco Sauce: 1 cup for a burst of zesty flavor
  • Milk or Cream: 1/2 cup to achieve a creamy consistency
Finishing Touches:
  • Fresh Cilantro: A handful roughly chopped, for garnish
  • Optional Extras: A dollop of sour cream avocado slices, or jalapeños for an extra kick

Method
 

Preheat & Prep:
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Prepare your ingredients: peel and dice (or shred) the potatoes, finely chop the onion, and dice the bell peppers. Having everything ready makes the process smooth and stress-free.
Cook the Filling:
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground meat until it’s fully cooked. If you’re opting for a vegetarian version, gently sauté the beans with a bit of oil.
  2. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in the taco seasoning, mixing well to evenly coat the meat and veggies. This step ensures every bite is infused with bold, Mexican-inspired flavors.
Combine & Layer:
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced or shredded potatoes with your prepared salsa/taco sauce and milk or cream. This creates a creamy, well-seasoned base for the casserole.
  2. In a greased baking dish, layer the potato mixture evenly.
  3. Spoon the cooked meat mixture over the potato layer, ensuring an even distribution.
  4. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, followed by a generous sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips or taco shells for that satisfying crunch.
Bake to Perfection:
  1. Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes.
  2. Check for doneness by ensuring the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If desired, add an extra 5 minutes for a golden, crispy top.
Finishing Touches:
  1. Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
  2. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, and if you like, add a dollop of sour cream, avocado slices, or a few jalapeños to enhance the flavor profile.