Description
Hearty, cheesy, and full of bold Tex-Mex flavor, Taco Hashbrown Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mashup. This easy dinner recipe combines seasoned ground meat, crispy hashbrowns, melty cheese, and all your favorite taco flavors in one delicious bake. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or anytime you’re craving something warm, filling, and irresistibly cheesy.
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Ingredients
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1 lb ground beef or ground chicken
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1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
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½ cup water
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1 can (10 oz) Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies), drained
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1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup
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1 cup sour cream
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1 bag (26–30 oz) frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for crisping hashbrowns)
Optional Toppings:
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Sliced green onions
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Diced tomatoes
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Jalapeño slices
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Fresh cilantro
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Salsa or hot sauce
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Avocado or guacamole
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Brown the Meat
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned.
Drain any excess grease.
Add taco seasoning and ½ cup water. Stir and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Stir in drained Rotel and set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Filling
In a large bowl, mix the cream of soup, sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheese.
Add the cooked taco meat mixture and stir until fully combined.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Spread half of the thawed hashbrowns evenly in the bottom of the dish.
Top with the taco-meat-cheese mixture and spread into an even layer.
Add the remaining hashbrowns on top. Drizzle with a little olive oil if you want extra crispiness.
Step 4: Bake and Top with Cheese
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove foil, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another 15–20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly and hashbrowns are lightly golden.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Top with your favorite taco toppings like green onions, jalapeños, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Notes
Thaw Hashbrowns First – Helps them cook evenly and prevents sogginess.
Use Sharp Cheddar – For bold flavor that cuts through the creamy filling.
Crisp the Top – A quick broil at the end gives a crispy, cheesy crust.
Make It Spicy – Add chopped jalapeños or pepper jack cheese for extra heat.
Add Veggies – Mix in corn, bell peppers, or black beans for extra texture and color.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex