My Mexican neighbor brought this over, and it was an instant hit!

Slow Cooker Mexican Tater Tot Casserole is a delightful fusion dish that brings the comfort of classic tater tot casseroles together with the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine. This dish is perfect for those busy weekdays when you want a no-fuss meal that’s hearty and satisfying. With its layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and the crispy crunch of tater tots, it's a crowd-pleaser that cooks itself while you go about your day.

This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad topped with avocado and a zesty lime vinaigrette. You can also serve it with a side of Mexican street corn, known as 'elote', for an added dose of authentic flavors. A dollop of sour cream and some chopped cilantro on top of the casserole just before serving can elevate the taste and presentation, making your meal feel complete and festive.

Servings: 6-8 servings

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can corn, drained
1 can Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
2 cups Mexican blend cheese, shredded
1 bag frozen tater tots
1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
Sour cream and chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat.

2. Add the taco seasoning to the beef and onion mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.

3. In a slow cooker, layer the black beans, corn, and Rotel tomatoes over the seasoned beef mixture.

4. Sprinkle one cup of the shredded Mexican blend cheese over the layered ingredients.

5. Arrange the frozen tater tots in an even layer on top.

6. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the tater tots are golden and crispy.

7. About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining cup of cheese on top and replace the lid until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Just before serving, top with sliced black olives and chopped green onions if desired. Serve with sour cream and chopped cilantro.

For a vegetarian twist, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or additional beans such as pinto or kidney beans. You can also mix in some chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for added flavor and heat. If you're a fan of spice, consider adding a drizzle of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the taco seasoning. For a creamier version, mix in a can of cream of mushroom or cheese soup with the beef mixture before layering in the slow cooker.