Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A simple and budget-friendly meal that uses pantry staples

• Kid-approved with cheesy, crispy layers that everyone enjoys

• Easy to prepare ahead of time and bake when ready

• Customizable with extra vegetables or seasonings

• Great for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional seasonings: garlic powder, paprika, or any favorite spices

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Add diced onions and cook until softened. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices. Drain excess fat.

3. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

4. Grease a casserole dish and spread the beef mixture evenly on the bottom.

5. Sprinkle 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.

6. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.

7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the tater tots are golden and crispy.

8. Remove from oven, top with the remaining cheddar cheese, and bake for 5 more minutes until melted and bubbly.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people. The total time is about 45-50 minutes, including 10 minutes of prep and 35-40 minutes of baking.

Variations

• Swap the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery for a different flavor.

• Add vegetables like peas, green beans, or corn to make it heartier.

• Use ground turkey, chicken, or sausage instead of beef.

• Try a Mexican twist by adding taco seasoning and topping with jalapeños.

• Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or Colby.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until hot. For longer storage, freeze the casserole (before or after baking) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze Tater Tot Casserole?

Absolutely, you can freeze it baked or unbaked for up to 2 months.

Do I need to thaw the tater tots first?

No, keep them frozen for best texture and crispiness.

What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?

Cream of chicken or cream of celery soup are great substitutes.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, peas, corn, or green beans blend perfectly into the beef mixture.

How do I make it less heavy?

Use light sour cream, reduced-fat cheese, or ground turkey instead of beef.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger casserole dish.

How do I make the topping extra crispy?

Bake uncovered and broil for the last 2-3 minutes for added crunch.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?

You can, but they’ll need to be pre-cooked or parboiled before layering.

What side dishes go well with this casserole?

A green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread make great pairings.

Conclusion

Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is a classic comfort dish that’s both easy to prepare and satisfying to eat. With its creamy beef filling, cheesy layers, and crispy tater tot topping, it’s a recipe that will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you serve it on a busy weeknight or at a potluck, this hearty casserole never disappoints.

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