Cheesy Taco Potato Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy, comforting dish that packs a punch of flavor and warmth, the Cheesy Taco Potato Casserole Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish brilliantly combines tender sliced potatoes with savory taco-seasoned beef, all smothered in creamy cheddar cheese soup and topped with a melty blanket of shredded cheddar. It’s like a fiesta and a comfort food classic having a delicious party in your oven! Whether you’re feeding a family or need a hearty meal to impress friends, this casserole is as satisfying as it is simple to make.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Cheesy Taco Potato Casserole Recipe plays a special role in creating that perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the seasoned ground beef bringing zesty warmth to the thinly sliced potatoes offering tender, rustic satisfaction, each component is simple but essential to the magic happening in your baking dish.

• 1 lb ground beef: Use lean or regular beef—this is the hearty base that carries all your taco flavors.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a subtle pungent kick that elevates the beef’s richness.
• 1 oz packet taco seasoning: The secret to infusing the beef with that unmistakable bold and savory taco taste.
• 10.5 oz can cheddar cheese soup: Brings creamy, cheesy goodness that ties the whole casserole together.
• 4 cups potatoes, sliced: Thin slices allow the potatoes to cook evenly and soak up the delicious layers around them.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Provides that irresistible golden, gooey cheese topping everyone loves.
• 1 cup beef broth: Keeps the casserole moist and adds depth to the savory flavor profile.

How to Make Cheesy Taco Potato Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and will bake evenly.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef and Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef together with the minced garlic until the beef is completely browned. This step is critical for developing flavor—be sure to drain off any excess fat to avoid greasiness in the casserole.

Step 3: Mix in the Taco Seasoning

Once the beef is cooked and drained, stir in your packet of taco seasoning thoroughly. This is where your casserole starts to get that delicious zesty taco kick.

Step 4: Layer the Potatoes

Spread your thinly sliced potatoes evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This layer acts as the delicious, tender foundation soaking up all those savory juices later on.

Step 5: Add the Seasoned Ground Beef

Evenly layer the cooked, taco-seasoned beef over the potato slices, distributing the bold flavor straight across the casserole base.

Step 6: Pour in Cheese Soup and Beef Broth

Next, pour the can of cheddar cheese soup and a cup of beef broth evenly over the beef layer. This creamy combination makes the potatoes tender and infuses every bite with cheesy richness.

Step 7: Top with Shredded Cheddar Cheese

Generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. This will melt beautifully and form a golden crust during baking, adding a perfect cheesy finish.

Step 8: Bake Covered

Cover your casserole loosely with aluminum foil and bake it for 45-50 minutes. This allows the potatoes to soften completely and the flavors to meld while locking in moisture.

Step 9: Final Cheese Browning

Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes to let the top cheese melt and brown, creating an irresistible golden crust that’s both visually appealing and mouthwatering.

Step 10: Let Rest and Serve

Before serving, let the casserole cool for a few minutes so it sets slightly, making it easier to slice and ensuring every bite stays intact.

How to Serve Cheesy Taco Potato Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Adding fresh garnishes like chopped parsley, cilantro, or even a dollop of sour cream can brighten every bite and add a lovely contrast to the cheesy richness.

Side Dishes

Serve this casserole alongside a crisp green salad or some steamed veggies to balance the meal with a refreshing crunch and lighter textures.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this casserole in individual ramekins for a personal touch or layer with other Mexican-inspired toppings like sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or avocado slices to customize the flavor experience further.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Simply cover any leftover casserole tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. It will stay delicious for up to 3-4 days, making great lunches or dinners the following days.

Freezing

You can freeze the entire casserole after baking and cooling completely. Wrap it well in foil and freezer-safe wrap to prevent freezer burn, and it will keep for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat refrigerated or thawed casserole portions in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and the cheese topping is bubbly again. Microwaving works for convenience but the oven method delivers the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen potatoes for this casserole?

Fresh sliced potatoes are best for this recipe since they cook evenly and soak up flavors well. If you must use frozen, ensure they’re fully thawed and pat dry to avoid excess moisture.

Is this casserole spicy?

The spice level depends on the taco seasoning you choose; typically, it has a mild to medium heat which is balanced nicely by the creamy cheese soup. Adjust seasoning to your taste.

Can I substitute the ground beef for another protein?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well. Just brown and season them the same way for a tasty twist.

Do I have to use cheddar cheese soup?

Cheddar cheese soup adds creamy depth, but you can substitute with a homemade cheese sauce or condensed cream of cheese soup. Just keep the consistency similar for good results.

What’s the best way to slice potatoes for this recipe?

A sharp knife or mandoline works great. Aim for about 1/8-inch thick slices so they cook evenly and become tender without turning mushy.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Cheesy Taco Potato Casserole Recipe, it’ll quickly earn its place in your go-to comfort food collection. It’s undeniably satisfying, easy to prepare, and perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to serve up some cheesy, taco-infused joy that everyone will ask for again and again!

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