Tater Tot Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines layers of ground beef, creamy soup, cheese, and crispy tater tots for the ultimate comfort food. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family gatherings, and it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley (for garnish, optional)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, or green beans)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (for extra flavor)
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (for added richness)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Break up the meat with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant.
- Season the beef mixture with salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Filling
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk until smooth.
- Stir the creamy mixture into the cooked ground beef, ensuring everything is well combined. If using frozen vegetables, stir them in at this point.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef layer.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in an even layer on top of the cheese.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the casserole from the oven, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the tater tots, and return it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish the casserole with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot with your favorite side salad or vegetables.
Cook Notes
- Tater Tot Crispy Tip: For extra crispy tater tots, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
- Cheese Options: You can use other types of cheese like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or mozzarella for extra flavor.
- Vegetables: Frozen mixed vegetables can be added for a more balanced meal, or you can use canned green beans or corn.
Variations
- Taco Tater Tot Casserole: Use taco seasoning instead of Worcestershire sauce and add a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies for a Tex-Mex twist.
- Breakfast Tater Tot Casserole: Swap the ground beef for breakfast sausage and add scrambled eggs and bell peppers for a breakfast version.
- Chicken Tater Tot Casserole: Substitute ground chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken for the ground beef and use cream of chicken soup for a chicken-focused dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 1 day in advance. Cover it with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge.
Can I freeze tater tot casserole?
Yes! You can freeze the unbaked casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
What can I serve with tater tot casserole?
Tater tot casserole pairs well with a light side salad, steamed vegetables, or a fresh fruit salad for a complete meal.
Tater Tot Casserole is a classic comfort food that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. With its layers of savory beef, creamy filling, gooey cheese, and crispy tater tots, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Customize it with your favorite add-ins and enjoy this satisfying, comforting meal any day of the week!