Mexican-Style Potato Puff Casserole

Cheesy, Spicy Tater Tot–Style Bake with Bold Flavor

This Mexican-Style Potato Puff Casserole is a fun, crowd-pleasing comfort food with a zesty twist. Crispy potato puffs (like tater tots) are baked over a savory, seasoned meat-and-bean base, then topped with gooey melted cheese for a bubbly, irresistible casserole the whole family will love.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, game day, or potlucks!

🌮 Why You’ll Love This Mexican Potato Casserole

✔️ Easy one-dish dinner
✔️ Loaded with Tex-Mex flavor
✔️ Kid-friendly & freezer-friendly
✔️ Great for parties and game day
✔️ Comfort food with a spicy kick

🛒 Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade)

• 1 cup corn kernels

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained & rinsed

• 1 cup salsa

• 1½ cups shredded Mexican-blend cheese

• 1 bag (32 oz) frozen potato puffs (tater tots)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, jalapeños

👩‍🍳 How to Make Mexican-Style Potato Puff Casserole

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Sauté onion for 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.

Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

Stir in:

• Taco seasoning

• Corn

• Black beans

• Salsa

Simmer for 3–4 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Spread beef mixture evenly in baking dish.
Sprinkle with 1 cup of the shredded cheese.
Top with frozen potato puffs in a single layer.

Step 4: Bake

Bake uncovered for 30 minutes.
Remove from oven, sprinkle remaining cheese on top.

Return to oven and bake another 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Step 5: Serve

Let rest 5 minutes.
Top with sour cream, cilantro, or jalapeños if desired.

🌶 Tips for the Best Potato Puff Casserole

• Use spicy salsa for extra heat

• Don’t thaw tater tots first

• Add bell peppers or green chiles

• Broil for 2 minutes for extra crisp tops

📦 Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Up to 4 days

• Freezer: Up to 2 months

• Reheat: Oven at 350°F or microwave

⭐ Final Thoughts

This Mexican-Style Potato Puff Casserole is cheesy, crispy, and packed with bold Tex-Mex flavor. It’s easy, satisfying, and perfect for feeding hungry crowds fast.