Jalapeño Tater Tot Casserole

Introduction

Let me tell you, Kitchies, there’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy casserole that packs a little heat! This Jalapeño Tater Tot Casserole is a bold twist on a classic comfort dish. Picture layers of crispy tater tots, gooey cheese, and spicy jalapeños, baked together to perfection. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for family dinners, potlucks, or game days.

This dish takes the cozy factor of a traditional casserole and cranks it up a notch with a spicy kick. Whether you’re a fan of all things cheesy or you love a good dose of heat, this casserole checks all the boxes. It’s easy to prepare, uses pantry staples, and tastes even better the next day.

In our house, this recipe has become the go-to when we want something hearty and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on what you have on hand.

Recipe Highlights

This casserole is layered with seasoned ground beef (or turkey), cream of mushroom soup for creaminess, jalapeños for spice, and crispy tater tots for a satisfying crunch. Melted cheddar cheese ties it all together, creating a deliciously comforting dish with a zesty kick.

Why This Jalapeño Tater Tot Casserole?

• Bold Flavors: A perfect balance of creaminess, cheesiness, and heat from jalapeños.
• Simple Ingredients: Easy-to-find ingredients make this dish accessible and quick to prepare.
• Customizable: Swap proteins, adjust the spice level, or add veggies for a personalized touch.
• Family-Friendly: Serve it mild or spicy to cater to all taste preferences.

Tips

• Reduce Spice: Remove seeds from jalapeños or substitute with mild green chilies for less heat.
• Extra Crunch: Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for extra crispy tater tots.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole in advance and bake when ready to serve.

Substitutions and Variations

• Protein: Swap ground beef for turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles.
• Cheese: Experiment with pepper jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican cheese blend.
• Veggies: Add bell peppers, corn, or black beans for extra texture and flavor.

Make a Healthier Version

• Use a low-fat cream soup and reduced-fat cheese.
• Replace tater tots with sweet potato tots or cauliflower tots for a lighter version.
• Opt for lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.

Closing

And there you have it! A Jalapeño Tater Tot Casserole that brings the heat and satisfies every craving. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a party dish, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to share your twists on the recipe, and check out our collection of comforting casseroles for more inspiration!

Relevant Categories

• Dinner
• Casserole Recipes
• Comfort Food

Tags

#JalapeñoCasserole #TaterTotRecipe #ComfortFood #EasyDinner #SpicyDish

Jalapeño Tater Tot Casserole

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• Author: Victoria
• Total Time: 45 minutes

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Description

Let me tell you, Kitchies, there’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy casserole that packs a little heat! This Jalapeño Tater Tot Casserole is a bold twist on a classic comfort dish.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb Ground Beef
• 1 10.5oz can Cream of Mushroom Soup
• 1 10oz can Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies 
• 1 12oz jar Sliced Pickled Jalapeño
• 1 12oz package Sliced American Cheese
• 1 32oz bag Frozen Tater Tots

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Instructions

• Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
• In a large skillet over medium heat, break apart and brown ground beef. Drain and discard excess fat.
• Transfer browned meat back to the skillet. Then add the cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes & green chilies, and finally 1/2 cup of sliced jalapeños (drain the juice from the jarred jalapeños before adding).
• Spread the mixture evenly inside a 9×13 casserole dish.
• Top the mixture with a single layer of cheese.
• Sprinkle a few additional jalapeños over the cheese to taste.
• Top with a single layer of frozen tater tots so the cheese is completely covered.
• Place on the center rack of the oven to bake for 30 minutes.
• The cheese will begin to bubble and the tots will start to brown indicating it is almost ready.
• Pull from the oven when ready and let cool for 5-10 minutes then ENJOY!

• Prep Time: 15
• Cook Time: 30

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 533