Rustic Cowboy Casserole (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Components

01 - 1 lb ground beef
02 - 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
03 - 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
04 - 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
05 - 1 packet taco seasoning
06 - 2 cups frozen tater tots
07 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

→ Aromatics & Vegetables

08 - 1 cup diced bell peppers (red and green)
09 - 1/2 cup chopped onion
10 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
11 - Salt and pepper to taste

→ Garnishes

12 - Sliced jalapeños (optional)
13 - Sour cream for serving (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and diced bell peppers, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
03 - Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
04 - Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Stir in taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Mix well and simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
05 - Transfer the beef mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Layer frozen tater tots on top, then sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
06 - Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly and tater tots are golden brown.
07 - Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with sliced jalapeños if desired and serve hot with sour cream on the side.

# Notes:

01 - This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking. Just add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.