Simple and Delicious Tater Tot Casserole
This Simple and Delicious Tater Tot Casserole is a cheesy, hearty, and easy-to-make dish perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or potlucks. Golden tater tots on top of a creamy, savory ground beef and cheese filling make it a comforting favorite everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450 g ground beef – or substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option
- 1 small onion diced – adds flavor and sweetness
- 2 cloves garlic minced – optional, for extra aroma
- 1 can 10.5 oz / 300 g cream of mushroom soup – or cream of chicken soup for variation
- 1 cup 240 ml sour cream – makes the casserole creamy
- 2 cups 200 g shredded cheddar cheese – plus extra for topping
- 1 bag 32 oz / 900 g frozen tater tots – the crispy topping everyone loves
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- Optional add-ins: peas corn, green beans, or bell peppers for extra veggies
- Optional herbs: parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish lightly with cooking spray or butter.
- Cook the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 lb of ground beef with the diced onion (and garlic if using) until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with 1 can of cream of mushroom soup and 1 cup of sour cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If adding veggies, fold them in now.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Then layer the frozen tater tots evenly over the cheese.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Optional Extra Cheese: For a cheesier top, sprinkle an additional ½ cup of cheddar over the tater tots in the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Notes
- Choose the Right Meat: Use 85% lean ground beef for a balance of flavor and less grease. Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter option.
- Cheese Options: Cheddar works best, but mixing in mozzarella or Monterey Jack creates extra gooeyness.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Enhance nutrition by adding peas, corn, green beans, or bell peppers.
- Tater Tot Tips: Keep tater tots frozen until layering; this ensures they crisp up nicely while baking.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve for a stress-free meal.
- Freezer-Friendly: The unbaked casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
- Seasoning Adjustments: Taste the beef mixture before baking and adjust salt, pepper, or spices to preference.
- Crispier Topping: For extra crunch, broil the casserole for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking. Watch closely to prevent burning.