Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is warm, filling, and incredibly easy to make. The ground beef provides savory depth, while the golden tater tots add a crispy, crave-worthy topping. It’s a hit with kids and adults alike, takes minimal prep, and is easily customizable based on what you have in the fridge or pantry.

Ingredients

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

• Ground beef
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper
• Cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
• Milk
• Frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Frozen tater tots

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Reduce heat and stir in cream of mushroom soup and milk. Mix until combined.
5. If using, add frozen mixed vegetables and stir until evenly distributed.
6. Pour the beef mixture into the prepared baking dish.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the beef layer.
8. Arrange tater tots in a single layer on top.
9. Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and the casserole is bubbly.
10. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves: 6–8
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 35–40 minutes
Total time: 45–50 minutes

Variations

• Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Use cream of cheddar soup for extra cheesiness.
• Swap beef with ground turkey or chicken.
• Top with green onions or crispy fried onions after baking.
• Stir in Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to deepen the flavor of the meat.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual servings for 1–2 minutes. To freeze, assemble the casserole and freeze before baking. When ready to use, thaw overnight and bake as directed.

FAQs

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Yes, but sauté them first to ensure they’re cooked through by the time the casserole is done.

What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?

Cream of chicken or cream of celery are great substitutes, or use a homemade white sauce.

Do I need to cook the tater tots first?

No, place them on top frozen—they’ll crisp up while baking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

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

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free cream soup and tater tots labeled gluten-free to make this dish gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Use a larger baking dish or two 9×13-inch pans.

Can I add more cheese?

Yes! You can layer extra cheese under and even on top of the tater tots.

Can I use a different meat?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives all work well.

Why is my casserole watery?

Be sure to drain excess fat from the meat and use less milk if your cream soup is already very loose.

What sides go with tater tot casserole?

It pairs well with green salad, steamed veggies, or fruit salad for balance.

Conclusion

Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is a nostalgic, comforting dish that brings classic flavors to the table with minimal effort. With its creamy, cheesy layers and crispy topping, it’s a meal that satisfies and feeds a crowd. Keep this recipe in your rotation for those nights when you need something easy, hearty, and absolutely delicious.

Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

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Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is a hearty comfort food bake featuring seasoned beef, creamy sauce, melted cheddar, and a crispy tater tot topping. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy weeknights.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
• Total Time: 45–50 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

1. 1 lb ground beef
2. 1 medium onion, chopped
3. 2 garlic cloves, minced
4. Salt and black pepper, to taste
5. 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
6. 1/2 cup milk
7. 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
8. 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
9. 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

1. In a skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Add garlic, salt, and pepper; cook 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in cream of mushroom soup and milk until combined.
4. Add mixed vegetables (if using) and stir to distribute.
5. Spread beef mixture evenly in baking dish.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
7. Arrange tater tots in a single layer over cheese.
8. Bake uncovered 35–40 minutes, until bubbly and tater tots are golden.
9. Rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Swap beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat.
• For extra cheesiness, use cream of cheddar soup or add cheese on top of the tots.
• Add jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy version.
• Top with green onions or crispy fried onions for garnish.
• Assemble ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 930mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 85mg