Tater Tot Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is everything you want in a comfort meal: creamy, cheesy, filling, and topped with crispy tater tots. It’s a simple, one-dish dinner that uses pantry staples and freezer-friendly ingredients. It’s kid-friendly, budget-friendly, and easily doubled for potlucks or gatherings.

Ingredients

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

• Ground beef
• Onion (diced)
• Garlic (minced, optional)
• Cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
• Frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Frozen tater tots
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
• Worcestershire sauce (optional, for added flavor)
• Paprika (optional, for topping)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat oil or butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
4. Stir in Worcestershire sauce (if using), salt, and pepper.
5. Mix in the cream of mushroom soup and frozen vegetables. Stir to combine and let heat through.
6. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef mixture.
8. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.
9. Sprinkle with paprika if desired.
10. Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
11. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Swap the soup for a homemade cream sauce.
• Add cooked bacon or sausage for extra flavor.
• Use different vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
• Top with pepper jack or mozzarella for a twist on the classic.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes or microwave individual servings for 1–2 minutes.
To freeze, cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of soup?

Yes, cream of chicken, celery, or even cheddar soup all work well.

Do I need to thaw the tater tots first?

No, they go on frozen and will cook perfectly in the oven.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze tater tot casserole?

Yes, freeze before or after baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat.

What cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend can be used.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, skip the meat and add more vegetables or a meat substitute.

How do I keep the tater tots crispy?

Bake uncovered and avoid layering them too closely together. Broil for the last few minutes if needed.

Can I add hot sauce or spice?

Absolutely. Stir in hot sauce or taco seasoning for a spicy kick.

Can I use fresh vegetables?

Yes, just cook them slightly before adding to the mixture.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can use gluten-free cream soup and check that your tater tots and other ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Tater Tot Casserole is a delicious, fuss-free dinner that’s perfect for busy nights or when you’re craving something warm and satisfying. With its crispy topping, creamy filling, and hearty ingredients, it’s no wonder this dish has remained a beloved staple in kitchens for decades. Try it once, and it’ll quickly become a regular on your meal plan.

Tater Tot Casserole

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Tater Tot Casserole is a classic comfort food dish made with seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, mixed vegetables, cheese, and a crispy tater tot topping. It’s quick, filling, and perfect for a family-friendly dinner.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

1. 1 lb ground beef
2. 1 small onion, diced
3. 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
4. 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
5. 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
6. 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
7. 1 (28–32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
8. 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
9. 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
10. 1/2 tsp salt
11. 1/4 tsp black pepper
12. 1/4 tsp paprika (optional, for topping)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft, about 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Stir in Worcestershire sauce (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Add cream of mushroom soup and frozen vegetables. Stir to combine and heat through.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef mixture.
7. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top. Sprinkle with paprika if desired.
8. Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
9. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Swap ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Use a different soup like cream of chicken or cheddar for variety.
• Add cooked bacon or sausage for extra flavor.
• Broil for the last few minutes to crisp the tater tots more.
• To make it vegetarian, skip the meat and add more vegetables or a meat substitute.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 540
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 90mg