Easy Cowboy Casserole Tater Tots (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 450g ground beef
02 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 425g canned sweet corn, drained
05 - 425g canned black beans or kidney beans, drained and rinsed
06 - 300ml canned cream of mushroom soup or cream of chicken soup
07 - 120ml sour cream
08 - 170g shredded cheddar cheese
09 - 900g frozen tater tots
10 - Salt, to taste
11 - Black pepper, to taste

→ Garnishes (Optional)

12 - Chopped green onions
13 - Sliced jalapeños

# Instructions:

01 - Set oven to 190°C. Lightly grease a 23x33 cm baking dish.
02 - In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until thoroughly browned. Drain excess fat.
03 - Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
04 - Stir in sweet corn, beans, cream of mushroom soup, and sour cream. Season with salt and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
05 - Spread the beef mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
06 - Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
07 - Distribute frozen tater tots in a single, even layer on top of the cheese.
08 - Bake for 30–35 minutes or until tater tots are golden brown and crisp.
09 - For a crispier finish, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes, monitoring closely.
10 - Top with chopped green onions or sliced jalapeños as desired. Serve hot.

# Notes:

01 - For a lighter result, substitute ground turkey. Incorporate diced bell peppers or cooked bacon for added flavor, or boost spice with taco seasoning or hot sauce. This casserole can be assembled ahead and frozen for future meals.