Fiesta Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

Name: Fiesta Tater Tot Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: cooking spray; 1 pound lean ground beef; 0.5 cup chopped green onion; 1 (1 ounce) package taco seasoning mix, divided; 1 (10.75 ounce) can tomato soup; 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed nacho cheese soup (such as Campbell's® Fiesta Nacho Cheese Soup); 1 (10.75 ounce) can milk; 1 (32 ounce) package frozen bite-size potato nuggets (such as Tater Tots®); 1.5 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

1 pound lean ground beef
cup chopped green onion
1 (1 ounce) package taco seasoning mix, divided
1 (10.5 ounce) can tomato soup
1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed nacho cheese soup
1 (10.75 ounce) can milk
1 (32 ounce) package frozen bite-size potato nuggets (Tater Tots)
1 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
Cooking spray

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Lightly spray a 9x13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray.

Step 2: In a large skillet, heat over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, green onion, and half of the taco seasoning mix. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 10 minutes. Drain any excess grease and set aside.

Step 3: In a saucepan, combine the remaining taco seasoning mix, tomato soup, nacho cheese soup, and milk. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the mixture is just about to boil.

Step 4: In the prepared casserole dish, layer the frozen potato nuggets. Place them in an even layer, then bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until the nuggets start to crisp up.

Step 5: After 10 minutes, remove the casserole dish from the oven. Spoon the cooked ground beef mixture over the potato nuggets. Pour the hot soup mixture evenly over the beef and potatoes.

Step 6: Return the casserole dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, until the soup mixture is bubbling.

Step 7: Sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese blend over the casserole. Bake for 5 to 10 more minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 500
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 66mg
Sodium: 1402mg
Total Carbohydrate: 42g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Total Sugars: 7g
Protein: 22g
Vitamin C: 8mg
Calcium: 251mg
Iron: 2mg
Potassium: 593mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Fiesta Tater Tot Casserole

The Fiesta Tater Tot Casserole is a mouthwatering dish that combines the comfort of classic American casserole with a Mexican twist. The recipe is easy to prepare and offers a quick meal that pleases crowds with its hearty flavors and satisfying textures. This casserole is made by layering tater tots, ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce flavored with taco seasoning, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a potluck favorite. The following sections dive into the history, regional variations, and unique qualities of this delicious dish.

History of the Fiesta Tater Tot Casserole

The origin of tater tot casseroles can be traced back to mid-20th century America. Tater tots, which were invented in the 1950s by the Ore-Ida company, became an iconic part of American comfort food. The casserole format itself was popularized in the 1950s and 1960s as a quick and affordable meal for busy families. While the standard tater tot casserole typically combines ground beef, vegetables, and cream-based soups, the "Fiesta" version adds a unique Mexican flair, combining nacho cheese soup, taco seasoning, and other flavorful spices, offering a zesty variation on the traditional dish.

Regional Variations

Regional variations of tater tot casseroles are common in American kitchens, with many families adding their own personal touches. The Fiesta version, however, stands out with its Mexican-inspired ingredients, such as taco seasoning and nacho cheese soup. In some variations, ingredients like black beans, chili beans, or jalapeos might be added, reflecting regional preferences for spicier and more robust flavors. This version is especially popular in the Southwestern United States, where Mexican cuisine has a significant influence on local food culture. While the basic casserole structure remains the same, it is often customized to suit individual tastes, creating unique twists in kitchens across the country.

What Makes It Different from Similar Dishes?

The Fiesta Tater Tot Casserole distinguishes itself from other tater tot casserole recipes by incorporating Mexican-inspired ingredients like taco seasoning, nacho cheese soup, and a Mexican cheese blend. Unlike the traditional tater tot casserole, which often uses simpler ingredients like green beans or mixed vegetables, the Fiesta version introduces the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine, making it spicier and more flavorful. Additionally, many other casserole recipes might feature mashed potatoes or other types of starchy bases, but tater tots bring a crispy texture that adds an extra layer of crunch and comfort. The combination of creamy cheese, spiced meat, and crispy tater tots creates a satisfying and indulgent dish that stands out from its more traditional counterparts.

Where Is It Typically Served?

The Fiesta Tater Tot Casserole is often served in casual settings such as family dinners, potlucks, and holiday gatherings. Its hearty ingredients and ease of preparation make it an excellent choice for feeding a crowd. The dish is also popular at tailgates, barbecues, and other social events, where its combination of comforting, familiar flavors and bold Mexican spices make it a hit. While it can be enjoyed at any time of year, its filling nature makes it particularly popular during colder months, providing warmth and satisfaction during the winter season.

Interesting Facts About the Dish

The concept of using tater tots in casseroles became widely popular in the U.S. in the 1960s, with many recipes becoming staples in family cookbooks.
Fiesta Tater Tot Casserole can be easily customized with a variety of toppings, such as sour cream, salsa, or guacamole, adding even more layers of flavor to the dish.
While the traditional tater tot casserole uses a simple beef filling, the addition of Mexican ingredients like taco seasoning, nacho cheese soup, and Mexican cheese gives this dish a distinct regional flair.
Though "tater tots" are generally associated with American cuisine, the combination of crispy potatoes with savory toppings has a universal appeal, making this casserole a beloved comfort food worldwide.
Some home cooks prefer to bake their tater tots before adding them to the casserole to ensure extra crispiness, although the dish can also be made without pre-baking the tots for a quicker preparation.

In conclusion, the Fiesta Tater Tot Casserole is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that puts a fun twist on a classic comfort food. Whether served at family dinners, potlucks, or casual get-togethers, this dish brings joy to any table with its hearty combination of crispy tater tots, seasoned beef, and creamy cheese. Its Mexican-inspired ingredients make it a favorite among those who enjoy a bit of spice in their meals, and its versatility ensures that it can be customized to suit a variety of tastes.

FAQ about Fiesta Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

Leftover Fiesta Tater Tot Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool down before refrigerating to preserve its texture and taste.

Yes, you can freeze the casserole. After baking, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for the ground beef. Make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the meat you choose.

If you can't find nacho cheese soup, you can substitute it with regular cheese soup or a combination of melted cheese and sour cream to achieve a similar creamy texture and flavor. Some people also use a cheese dip or a homemade cheese sauce.

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking. Simply assemble the casserole, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before baking, or add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the texture of the tater tots might not be as crispy.

You can add extra spices, such as chili powder, cumin, or paprika, to give the casserole a little more kick. Additionally, top it with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.

While you can use fresh potatoes, they will require more preparation, such as slicing and baking them to get a crispy texture similar to tater tots. Frozen tater tots are designed to cook quickly and evenly, making them the best option for this casserole.

If you don't have taco seasoning, you can make your own by combining chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. Adjust the seasoning to your taste preference.

Comments

DREGINEK

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

Ok: I totally "get" this...a twist between Mexican nachos and typical tater tot hot dish. Made as directed and pretty good. My mind couldn't quite process the upside down (or reversed) baking of this casserole but it was good. I totally plan to try again with the following changes. 1) place beef on bottom per normal. 2) in place of your typical green beans (as the 2nd "layer" I will try...maybe a can of chili beans or black beans...we'll see what's in my pantry. 3) pour half the sauce over the meat/beans, layer tots and pour remaining sauce over all. Bake for the normal hour or so as I am used to but will still achieve the Mexican twist goal. Fun and worth a try. Thank you for the great idea.

Jessica M

01/13/2016 01:57:15 PM

I made this for dinner tonight with some minor changes based on what I had in the house. I used ground turkey instead of beef, a can of Campbell's Cheddar Cheese Soup since I didn't have the other kind, and two cans of Rotel tomatoes (mild with diced green chilis). I didn't cook the tater tots first as suggested in the original recipe. I just mixed the soup, tomatoes and browned ground turkey together and poured it over the top of the tater tots in the casserole dish. Baked it on 350 for 25 minutes, added some shredded cheese to the top and let it melt before serving.

Quinie Leary

09/16/2015 11:48:21 AM

I kept all the ingredients it called for as listed, with the exception of adding a cup of frozen sweet corn to the hamburger/tomato soup mixture as it was simmering. Other than that, the one major change I made was to flip this casserole upside down from it's instructions. I have OCD...seriously...and my mind could not deal with the tots being on the bottom. The concept literally drove me insane (anyone with OCD will understand) and I couldn't build the casserole the way it was instructed. So I placed the hamburger/tomato soup/taco seasoning mix with the corn I added on the bottom, topped it with 3/4 of the nacho cheese soup mixture, then the tater tots which I crisped beforehand, then drizzled those with the final 1/4 nacho cheese soup mix. Baked for 15 - 20 minutes, then topped with the shredded cheese and diced green onion. Placed back in the oven another 5-10 minutes until cheese was melted and golden brown. This was DELICIOUS. Rave reviews from hubby and one that will definitely go into rotation. Thank you for the wonderful recipe!

grampnana

02/03/2015 03:45:24 AM

This was a nice change from our regular hamburger dishes and we really liked it. For ease, I browned the beef, adding the diced yellow onion during the last bit, to soften. Added at that point a can of pinto beans and the taco seasoning packet. Poured that mixture into a 9x9 pan (perfect size, as it turned out); topped with shredded cheese; poured the mixture of soups and milk over the top, sprinkling with a bit more homemade taco seasoning; and refrigerated until 30 minutes before dinner time. At that point, preheated the oven while covering the top of the casserole with tater tots, which required less than the amount called for here, and also no bottom layer of tots. Cooked about 25 to 30 minutes, as it started out cold from the fridge. Easy and quick. Hubby like as is and I did too, but found it even tastier with sprinkles of Tobasco sauce. We found the layer of tots as a topping to be more than adequate and don't think either of us would have liked it half as much with an additional layer on the bottom. Yum. Thanks for sharing.

kathy

11/20/2013 02:56:11 PM

I made this recipe pretty much like directed. I added some white onions also into the hamburger as it was cooking. I added a can of corn, drained, into the soup mixture. I didn't brown the tator tots first, I just put soup mixture on top of frozen tots. I crushed some fritos on top of the melted cheese. Yum!!! Its a keeper.

Katzmagick in the Kitchen

10/27/2017 10:20:43 PM

4 stars because it needed a little something extra. I used green and white onion. Added fresh tomatoes and sliced red pepper strips. I only had cheddar soup so I used it. Having the fresh tomato and pepper helped offset some of the "tinny" taste of the canned soups. I also used a recipe on here for taco seasoning. It makes a difference in the overall taste.

sweetpealifestyle

08/25/2024 08:19:48 PM

This was a super easy dinner recipe to make! I did make a few adjustments: I used the spicy nacho cheese soup (I tried three stores and could not find plain.), and instead of tomato soup, I used unsalted tomato puree. I did what other users suggested, and added the tater tots on top, and this was so good!! Comfort food at it's finest!! If you like "tot-chos" at your favorite restaurant, this is a lot like those!

S Sundt

12/30/2012 11:32:18 AM

This turned out great! I think it'll be a new favorite. Incredibly filling and delicious! My grocery store doesn't carry the condensed nacho cheese soup, so I used two individual cups of a 4-pk of Chi-chi's nacho cheese dip and a can of Contadina tomato sauce. I omitted the milk because we only had almond milk on-hand and that didn't sound too appealing for this recipe.

tonka

03/06/2024 02:47:53 AM

I was unsure about the CAN of milk so I just used some heavy cream I had. Turned out great. We topped with sour cream, jalapeño and salsa. Very good.

dutchiegirl

09/21/2019 12:30:25 PM

I forgot to bake the tater tots before adding the rest of the ingredients and it still was delicious. Next time I’ll bake them first for the crunchiness. Also used salsa instead of tomato soup because I was out and it worked well. Will definitely make again!

DREGINEK

01/23/2013 07:42:29 PM

DaringBay6624

07/08/2025 04:05:44 PM

delish!

EagerEel2256

03/04/2025 10:13:37 PM

It took a little time to bake but it was 😊

William Young

02/05/2024 10:21:34 PM

Made it and immediately bragged to friends.

Lisa Bongiorno

05/28/2023 03:20:00 AM

was great few things help or options we used multiple cheeses include velveeta we used 3 cheeses Next time toast tater tots little more

Kittyluv

07/22/2022 12:36:50 AM

Great recipe! I changed it up a bit because I didn’t have some items. Tater tots I decided to put in air fryer first and make them crispy. Browned the ground beef and added, green onions, taco mix, minced onions, regular coffee creamer, some Tostito cheese dip ,and some cayenne powder. Mixed it all up and layered tater tots first, ground beef and plenty of Monterey Jack cheese slices on top. Cooked at 400º in oven for 10 minutes. Family loved it!

Jayme Elizabeth Carroll-Hall

05/05/2022 04:26:46 PM

Very good. I also enjoy reading the recipe and saying potato nuggets over and over again lol.

jill

07/12/2021 01:44:23 AM

Awesome!!! I added sour cream and avacado for some flavor! Kids and adults loved it!!!

SaraPerea

06/27/2020 04:11:52 PM

Just okay in my opinion. If I'm going to splurge on the calories and processed ingredients I want it to taste better.

Emily J Campbell

11/12/2018 12:35:54 AM

This one is a keeper !!!!

Cook Time: 20 minutes