Taco Hashbrown Casserole

If you’re craving bold taco flavors with the cozy comfort of a cheesy casserole, this Taco Hashbrown Casserole is exactly what you need. With seasoned ground beef, crispy hashbrowns, gooey cheese, and a creamy base, this easy-to-make dish is a satisfying, family-friendly meal perfect for Taco Tuesday or any night of the week.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bold Flavor – All your favorite taco spices in a hearty, baked casserole.
Cheesy & Creamy – Loaded with cheddar cheese and a creamy base.
Easy to Prepare – Made with simple pantry and freezer staples.
Crowd-Pleaser – Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or casual get-togethers.
Customizable – Make it spicy, meatless, or load it with veggies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb ground beef or ground chicken
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
• ½ cup water
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 can (10 oz) Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies), drained
• 1 (26–30 oz) bag frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: ½ cup corn, black beans, or bell peppers

Toppings (Optional):

• Sliced green onions
• Chopped cilantro
• Crushed tortilla chips
• Diced tomatoes
• Jalapeño slices
• Sour cream or avocado

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• 9×13-inch casserole dish
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Aluminum foil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Meat
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and onion over medium heat until browned.
Drain excess grease, then add taco seasoning and ½ cup of water. Stir and simmer for 2–3 minutes.

Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the cooked taco meat, cream of soup, sour cream, drained Rotel, garlic powder, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Spread half the hashbrowns in the bottom of the dish.
Top with the taco meat mixture, spreading it evenly.
Add the remaining hashbrowns over the top.
Sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese.

Step 4: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Uncover and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until hot, bubbly, and golden on top.
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for Best Results
Thaw Hashbrowns – Ensures even baking and a crispy texture.
Use Sharp Cheddar – For bold, cheesy flavor.
Add Veggies – Corn, bell peppers, or black beans blend in perfectly.
Make It Spicy – Add hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the filling.
Prep Ahead – Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Serving Suggestions
Mexican Rice – A perfect side to round out the meal.
Simple Green Salad – Balances the richness with a refreshing crunch.
Tortilla Chips & Salsa – Adds extra crunch and flavor.
Fruit Salad – A light, sweet contrast to the savory casserole.
Cornbread – For an extra Southern-inspired touch.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating:
Oven: Reheat covered at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.
Microwave: Heat individual servings on medium power in 1-minute intervals.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use tater tots instead of hashbrowns?
   Yes! Just arrange them in a single layer on top for a crispy finish.
2. Can I make this vegetarian?
   Absolutely. Use meatless crumbles or black beans instead of meat.
3. What kind of cheese works best?
   Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend also work great.
4. Can I prep it ahead of time?
   Yes! Assemble and refrigerate for up to a day before baking.
5. Is it spicy?
   It has mild heat from the Rotel. Use hot Rotel or add chili flakes for extra spice.

Final Thoughts
Taco Hashbrown Casserole is a warm, satisfying, and easy meal that brings the flavor of tacos to your dinner table—casserole-style. It’s comforting, cheesy, and layered with flavor, making it a guaranteed family favorite. Whether you’re serving a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is always a win.

Try it out and don’t forget the toppings—because everything is better with a little crunch and cream on top!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Cuisine: Tex-Mex Fusion

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 510 | Protein: 25g | Carbohydrates: 30g | Fat: 32g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 820mg

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