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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the deliciousness of a tater tot casserole. This Spicy Hatch Chili Tater Tot Casserole combines the savory flavors of ground beef or turkey, creamy mushroom soup, and the unique kick of spicy Hatch chilies. It's a dish that not only warms your heart but also excites your taste buds with its delightful blend of textures and flavors. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings with friends, this recipe is easy to prepare and offers a unique twist on a classic favorite.

Hatch Chili Tater Tot Casserole

Discover the comfort of Spicy Hatch Chili Tater Tot Casserole, a delicious blend of ground beef or turkey, creamy mushroom soup, and spicy Hatch chilies. This easy-to-make dish features a crispy tater tot topping and is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Enjoy the rich flavors and delightful textures of this unique twist on a classic favorite. From preparation to serving suggestions, this recipe offers everything you need to create a memorable meal that will impress everyone at your table.

Ingredients
  

1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

1 cup sour cream

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 can (15 oz) black beans, thoroughly rinsed and drained

1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies (preferably Hatch chilies for authentic flavor)

2 cups frozen tater tots

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking.

    Prepare the Beef: In a large skillet, heat over medium heat and add the ground beef (or turkey). Season it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Cook the meat for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula until it is browned and fully cooked. If there's excess grease, drain it to keep the casserole from becoming too greasy.

      Combine the Filling: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground meat with the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, drained black beans, diced green chilies, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well incorporated and smooth.

        Layer the Casserole: Transfer the filling mixture into a greased 9x13 inch (or similarly sized) baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom for a uniform layer.

          Top with Tater Tots: Evenly arrange the frozen tater tots on top of the meat filling. Ensure they are spread out in a single layer for even cooking and crispy texture.

            Sprinkle with Cheese: Add the remaining half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the arranged tater tots, ensuring good coverage for a cheesy crust.

              Bake to Perfection: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The dish is done when the tater tots achieve a delicious golden brown and crispy texture.

                Garnish and Serve: After baking, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. If desired, finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy the savory goodness!

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6-8

                    - Serving Suggestion: This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up the deliciousness!