Taco Hash Brown Casserole Recipe [oven baked]

Elevate your taco night with this delightful Oven Baked Taco Hash Brown Casserole. Combining the savory flavors of seasoned ground beef, crispy hash browns, and melty cheese, this dish offers a hearty and satisfying twist on traditional tacos. This casserole is sure to become a family favorite, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering.

Hash browns, a beloved breakfast staple in American cuisine, are typically made from grated or finely chopped potatoes that are pan-fried until crispy and golden brown. Originating in the United States in the late 19th century, hash browns quickly gained popularity due to their simplicity and delicious taste, becoming a common feature in diners and home kitchens alike.

Hash brown casserole, on the other hand, takes this classic dish to a new level by incorporating additional ingredients such as cheese, sour cream, and sometimes meats or vegetables, creating a rich and comforting one-dish meal.

This variation is particularly popular in the Midwest and Southern United States, often appearing at potlucks, holiday gatherings, and family dinners for its hearty and crowd-pleasing nature.

What makes Taco Hash Brown Casserole special?

A Taco Hash Brown Casserole is a delicious fusion dish that combines the flavors of traditional tacos with the comfort and heartiness of a hash brown casserole.

It typically includes seasoned ground beef, onions, and taco seasoning layered with crispy hash browns, cheese, and sometimes additional ingredients like beans, corn, or peppers.

Baked until bubbly and golden, this casserole offers a satisfying blend of textures and tastes, making it a versatile dish suitable for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.

What ingredients go into the Taco Hash Brown Casserole

• Hash browns are shredded or diced potatoes that are typically pan-fried until crispy and golden brown. They serve as a versatile base in many dishes, offering a satisfying crunch and starchy goodness that pairs well with a variety of flavors.
• Garlic is a pungent and aromatic bulb that adds depth and complexity to dishes. It is commonly used in many cuisines to enhance flavor, and its health benefits include antioxidant properties and potential immune-boosting effects.
• Onions are a staple vegetable known for their sharp flavor when raw and their sweet, savory taste when cooked. They form the foundation of many dishes, adding a rich, aromatic quality that complements the other ingredients in the casserole.
• Taco seasoning is a blend of spices, including cumin, chili powder, paprika, and oregano, among others. This spice mix gives the casserole its distinctive taco flavor, adding warmth and a hint of spiciness.
• Vegan ground beef is a plant-based alternative to traditional ground beef, made from ingredients like soy, pea protein, or mushrooms. It mimics the texture and taste of meat while providing a cruelty-free and often healthier option.

More ingredients

• Diced tomatoes add a juicy, tangy element to the casserole, balancing the richness of the other ingredients. They also contribute to the dish’s moisture and overall flavor profile.
• Black beans are a nutritious legume, rich in protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. They add a creamy texture and a mild, earthy flavor to the casserole, making it more filling and nutritious.
• Dairy-free sour cream is made from plant-based ingredients such as cashews, coconut milk, or soy. It provides the tangy creaminess of traditional sour cream without the use of dairy, making the dish suitable for those with lactose intolerance or vegan preferences.
• Vegan cheddar is a plant-based cheese alternative, often made from nuts, soy, or tapioca. Shredded vegan cheddar melts similarly to dairy cheese and adds a rich, cheesy flavor to the casserole without animal products, accommodating vegan diets and those with dairy allergies.

How to make Taco Hash Brown Casserole

Preheat your oven to 380 F and set a casserole dish ready.

First, heat 3 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large pan. When hot, add the hash browns and fry them for about 8 minutes until they begin to brown. When ready, set aside.

Next, heat the remaining 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in another pan. Begin with frying the ground beef together with the diced onions for 5 minutes. Season with pressed garlic and add the taco seasoning. Mix well.

Now add black beans and diced onions. Stir in the dairy-free sour creme and bring everything to a simmer. Then remove from heat. 

Give the taco meat over the hash browns and combine all. Transfer the mixture to the casserole dish and top with the vegan cheddar cheese.

Bake the Taco Hash Brown Casserole in the oven for 15 minutes until the top gets golden brown. 

Serving Suggestions for Taco Hash Brown Casserole

1. Serve the casserole with a simple mixed green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The freshness and crunch of the salad will complement the rich, savory casserole.
2. Offer a side of homemade guacamole and fresh salsa. These classic taco accompaniments add vibrant flavors and a creamy, tangy contrast to the casserole.
3. Pair the casserole with a serving of Mexican rice, which features flavors of tomato, garlic, and onion. This makes for a hearty, well-rounded meal.
4. A slice of moist, slightly sweet cornbread can be a delicious accompaniment, providing a nice contrast to the spicy and savory elements of the casserole.
5. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and corn. The roasted veggies add color, texture, and a healthy component to the meal.
6. Include a bowl of crunchy tortilla chips for scooping up the casserole or enjoying with guacamole and salsa. This adds an extra layer of fun and texture to the meal.
7. Fresh avocado slices or a drizzle of lime juice over the casserole can add a creamy and refreshing element, enhancing the overall flavor.
8. Pico de Gallo: This fresh tomato-based salsa made with onions, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeños can brighten up the dish and add a burst of fresh flavor.
9. Serve lime wedges on the side for an optional squeeze of citrus. The acidity helps to balance the richness of the casserole and adds a refreshing twist.

These serving suggestions not only enhance the meal but also provide a variety of flavors and textures to complement the Taco Hash Brown Casserole.

Other Recipes to Try

• Potato Hash
• Hashbrown Potatoes
• Hashbrown Casserole
• Vegan Potato Casserole
• Potato Cakes

Indulging in a serving of this Taco Hash Brown Casserole is like bringing the best of comfort food and taco night together in one delectable dish.

Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, preparing a family dinner, or simply treating yourself to something special, this casserole is sure to impress with its rich flavors and satisfying textures.

Try it out, and don’t forget to share your culinary creations and stories with us—after all, the best meals are the ones we enjoy and celebrate together!

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