Easy Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tater Tot Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. It’s loaded with ground beef, creamy sauce, and crispy tater tots, making it a favorite among kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

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

  • Ground beef
  • Onion (chopped)
  • Garlic (minced)
  • Cream of mushroom soup
  • Cream of chicken soup
  • Frozen tater tots
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Milk
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper
  • Green onions (for garnish, optional)

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
  3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
  4. Stir in cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  5. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
  6. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.
  7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
  8. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until melted.
  9. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 6-8
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
  • Total Time: 50-55 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for a kick.
  • Vegetarian Option: Use a meat substitute or add more veggies like mushrooms and bell peppers.
  • Healthier Version: Use low-fat soups, turkey instead of beef, and reduced-fat cheese.
  • Extra Crunch: Top with crushed potato chips or fried onions before baking.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes or microwave in short intervals.

FAQs

Easy Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?

Yes, but they should be pre-cooked or parboiled to ensure even cooking.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate overnight before baking.

What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack or a cheese blend works well too.

Can I use different types of soup?

Yes, feel free to experiment with cream of celery or even cheddar soup.

How do I prevent soggy tater tots?

Make sure to bake uncovered so the tots crisp up properly.

Is this casserole kid-friendly?

Yes! Kids love the crispy tater tots and cheesy flavors.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Peas, carrots, and green beans make great additions.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great lighter alternative.

What should I serve with this casserole?

It pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables.

How do I make this dish dairy-free?

Use dairy-free soups, cheese, and a plant-based milk substitute.

Conclusion

This Easy Tater Tot Casserole recipe is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s simple to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a gathering, it’s sure to be a hit. Try different variations to suit your taste and enjoy a warm, crispy, and cheesy meal!

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Easy Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

Easy Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

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  • Author: samahkitchen
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 68 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Tater Tot Casserole is a simple, hearty meal made with ground beef, creamy sauce, cheese, and crispy tater tots. It’s a budget-friendly dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or anytime you need a cozy comfort food!


Ingredients

Units Scale

  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess grease.
  • Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Cook for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
  • Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  • Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the beef.
  • Arrange tater tots in a single layer on top.
  • Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
  • Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • Make it Creamier: Add ½ cup sour cream to the beef mixture.
  • Spice it Up: Mix in ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a little kick.
  • Veggie Boost: Stir in ½ cup frozen peas, corn, or green beans before baking.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for best texture.

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