Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent.
Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Stir in minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
Sprinkle taco seasoning over the beef mixture and pour in water. Stir well to combine, then simmer for a few minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
In a separate bowl, mix together sour cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
In the slow cooker, create layers starting with a layer of frozen tater tots at the bottom.
Spoon the beef mixture over the tater tots, followed by a layer of the sour cream and cheese mixture.
Add diced green chiles on top of the cheese layer.
Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, ending with a layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4 hours, or until the tater tots are cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Once cooked, serve the Slow Cooker John Wayne Casserole hot, and enjoy the delicious Tex-Mex flavors!
This hearty and flavorful casserole is perfect for a cozy dinner or potluck gathering. Enjoy!
