Here’s a hearty and comforting recipe for Tater Tot Chili Casserole—a fun twist on classic chili with crispy tater tots on top!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 packet (1 oz) chili seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 cup frozen corn or fresh corn kernels
Instructions:
- Cook the meat:
- In a large skillet or pan, cook the ground beef or ground turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add vegetables and seasonings:
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper (if using) to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chili seasoning mix. Mix well and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using, add the frozen corn and mix well.
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Assemble the casserole:
- Spread the chili mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Add tater tots:
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the chili and cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or green onions if desired.
Tip:
For a bit of heat, you can add some chopped jalapeños to the chili mixture or top the casserole with sliced pickled jalapeños before baking. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of sliced green onions on top before serving.
Enjoy your Tater Tot Chili Casserole—a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings!