Beefy Potato Taco Casserole – A Hearty and Flavorful Family Favorite

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If you’re looking for a comforting, cheesy, and satisfying dish that brings bold taco flavors to a hearty potato casserole, this Beefy Potato Taco Casserole is just what you need. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping, this dish combines seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey melted cheese in every bite.

It’s easy to prepare, made with simple pantry staples, and cooks effortlessly in a slow cooker, making it an ideal set-it-and-forget-it meal. Serve it with your favorite taco toppings, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dinner that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ One-Pot Meal – Everything cooks together in one casserole dish or slow cooker, saving you time and effort.
✔ Bold Taco Flavors – Seasoned beef, cheddar cheese, and taco seasoning bring southwestern-inspired goodness.
✔ Perfect for Busy Days – Slow cook it while you go about your day, and come home to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal.
✔ Family-Friendly – Even picky eaters will love the cheesy, hearty flavors of this dish.

Ingredients

To make this rich and cheesy taco casserole, you’ll need:

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 2 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1 oz taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
  • 10.5 oz can cheddar cheese soup
  • 4 cups sliced potatoes (thinly sliced for even cooking)
  • 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup beef broth

Optional Toppings & Garnishes

  • Sour cream – For a creamy finish
  • Chopped green onions or cilantro – Adds freshness
  • Sliced jalapeños – For a spicy kick
  • Diced tomatoes – Adds a pop of color and freshness
  • Tortilla chips – Crushed on top for extra crunch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

  1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks.
  2. Add chopped garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Drain excess grease and set aside.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole

  1. Lightly grease a 6-quart slow cooker or oven-safe casserole dish.
  2. Arrange the sliced potatoes evenly in the bottom of the dish.
  3. Spread the cooked ground beef evenly over the potatoes.
  4. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef to infuse bold flavors.
  5. Spread the cheddar cheese soup evenly over the mixture.
  6. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
  7. Gently pour the beef broth around the dish to help create a rich, creamy sauce.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Casserole

  1. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-2.5 hours until the potatoes are tender and the flavors are well combined.

Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches

  1. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
  2. If using an oven-safe slow cooker insert, place it under the broiler for 90 seconds until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

  1. Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to serve.
  2. Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, chopped green onions, or diced tomatoes.

Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors of cheesy, beefy taco goodness!

Serving Suggestions

This taco-inspired casserole pairs well with:

  • A Crisp Green Salad – For a fresh contrast to the hearty dish.
  • Mexican Rice or Cilantro Lime Rice – Complements the taco flavors beautifully.
  • Refried Beans or Black Beans – Adds extra protein and texture.
  • Cornbread or Tortilla Chips – Perfect for scooping up every bite!

Tips & Variations

Make It Spicier

  • Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture.
  • Use spicy taco seasoning for an extra kick.

Make It Creamier

  • Mix ½ cup sour cream into the cheddar cheese soup for an extra creamy texture.

Swap the Protein

  • Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.

Add More Veggies

  • Stir in corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.

Make It Crunchy

  • Top the casserole with crushed tortilla chips before serving for a crunchy texture.

How to Store & Reheat

Refrigeration:

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

  • Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating:

  • Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
  • Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

  • Calories: 420
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Sodium: Moderate (adjust seasoning as needed)

Final Thoughts

This Beefy Potato Taco Casserole is the ultimate comfort food with layers of cheesy, savory, and perfectly spiced flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner, meal prepping, or feeding a crowd, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit at the table.

Try it today and enjoy a warm, hearty, and satisfying meal that brings all the flavors of tacos in a cheesy, baked casserole form!

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