If you’re looking for a hearty and flavorful dish that the whole family will love, then Cheesy Taco Hashbrown Casserole is the perfect recipe to try! This dish combines the comfort of crispy hashbrowns, the bold flavors of taco seasoning, and the gooey goodness of melted cheese. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, brunch, or as a party dish, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
To make this Cheesy Taco Hashbrown Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 package (30 oz) frozen hashbrowns (you can also use fresh if preferred)
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade)
- 1 cup diced onion (optional)
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel works great)
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or any preferred cheese)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- Jalapeños (optional, for garnish)
- Tortilla chips or salsa for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the hashbrowns:
- If you’re using frozen hashbrowns, thaw them slightly to avoid excess moisture. If using fresh hashbrowns, simply shred them using a grater.
- Cook the ground meat:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion (if using) and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet, breaking it up as it cooks. Once browned, drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the meat and mix it in, adding water according to the seasoning packet’s instructions (usually about 2/3 cup).
- Stir in the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies and the diced green chilies (if using), and simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Assemble the casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the slightly thawed hashbrowns, sour cream, and a portion of the shredded cheese (reserve about a cup for the topping). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Spread the hashbrown mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Top the hashbrowns with the cooked taco meat mixture.
- Top with cheese:
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the casserole, covering it evenly.
- Bake:
- Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the hashbrowns are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve and garnish:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, jalapeños, or any toppings of your choice.
- Serve with tortilla chips or salsa on the side for an extra crunch and flavor!
Tips for Perfecting Your Casserole:
- Customize the meat: You can easily make this casserole vegetarian by swapping out the ground meat for black beans, refried beans, or even a plant-based protein like soy crumbles.
- Spice it up: If you love spicy food, consider adding sliced jalapeños into the casserole or topping it with your favorite hot sauce before serving.
- Add veggies: To make the dish more nutritious, you can toss in diced bell peppers, corn, or zucchini to the meat mixture.
- Make ahead: This casserole is perfect for prepping ahead of time. You can assemble it the night before and refrigerate it until ready to bake, making it a great option for busy nights or entertaining.
Why You’ll Love It:
This Cheesy Taco Hashbrown Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. It combines crispy potatoes with savory taco-seasoned meat and the rich, melty texture of cheese—creating a delicious, filling dish that everyone can enjoy. It’s also highly customizable, so you can easily adjust it to your taste preferences. Whether you’re feeding a large group or enjoying it as a family meal, this casserole is bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Taco Hashbrown Casserole is a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its combination of crispy hashbrowns, seasoned meat, and melted cheese, this casserole delivers a flavor-packed meal that’s sure to leave everyone asking for seconds. Make it your next dinner or weekend brunch recipe, and watch how quickly it becomes a family favorite!