Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

Name: Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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

Author: Emily

Published: 4 May 2024

Updated: 31 January 2026

When the weather turns chilly, nothing beats a warm, hearty casserole. This Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is pure comfort food, reminding me of family dinners gathered around the table. It’s creamy, cheesy, and best of all, super easy to whip up! You can feel the warmth and love in every bite. Plus, it’s a perfect way to use simple ingredients, making it great for a busy weeknight.

why make this recipe

This recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser. It’s one of those dishes that everyone loves. Kids enjoy the crispy tater tots, while adults appreciate the savory beef and creamy texture. It’s also incredibly customizable. You can easily swap in your favorite spices or add extra veggies for more nutrition. And let’s be honest—it only takes about an hour from start to finish!

how to make Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

Gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking. This is where the magic happens!

Ingredients:
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

Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

Directions:

1️⃣ Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2️⃣ Cook the ground beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Add those diced onions and cook until they soften. Sprinkle in some salt, pepper, and any optional spices like garlic powder or paprika. Drain any excess fat.
3️⃣ Combine with cream sauce: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream, mixing well with the beef. Just cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything’s heated through.
4️⃣ Layer in the casserole dish: Grease a casserole dish and spread that beef mixture evenly across the bottom.
5️⃣ Add cheese layer: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
6️⃣ Add tater tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese. I like to get a little creative here, making fun patterns!
7️⃣ Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
8️⃣ Add final cheese layer: Remove the casserole from the oven and top with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese. It’s gooey goodness! Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until that cheese is melted and bubbly.
9️⃣ Serve: Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before digging in!

how to serve Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

This casserole is perfect on its own, but you can also pair it with a fresh salad. I love a simple mixed greens salad or even a crunchy coleslaw. For an extra touch, serve it with some warm sourdough garlic rolls on the side. Trust me, you’ll want to mop up all that delicious sauce!

how to store Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

If you have leftovers (which might be a stretch, given how tasty it is), let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for about 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven for that crispiness or in the microwave for a quick meal.

tips to make Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

Here are a few pro tips to elevate your casserole game! Use lean ground beef to make it a bit lighter. Don’t forget to season your beef mixture well. You can even add some cooked veggies for extra flavor—think peppers or corn! And if you’re feeling adventurous, try topping it with jalapeños for a spicy kick. For variety, check out my vegetable lasagna for a veggie-packed option!

variation (if any)

Feel free to experiment! Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter dish. If you’re not a fan of cream of mushroom soup, try cream of chicken or even a homemade cheese sauce. The options are endless! You might also like to serve it with a side of creamy potato soup to keep that cozy vibe going.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble it the night before and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.

Can I freeze Tater Tot Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Before baking, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the freezer—just allow for a longer cooking time.

What can I substitute for the cream of mushroom soup?
You can use cream of chicken soup or a homemade creamy sauce if you prefer. It’s always fun to get creative in the kitchen!

Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

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