If you’re looking for a cozy, satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor, this Cheesy Ground Beef Tater Tot Casserole is the perfect choice. With layers of seasoned beef, creamy sauce, gooey cheese, and crispy tater tots, this dish is the definition of comfort food. It’s quick to assemble and bakes to golden perfection, making it a great option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
This casserole brings together simple pantry staples for a meal the whole family will love. The combination of cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and Worcestershire sauce creates a rich, savory base that pairs perfectly with the crispy potato topping. And of course, plenty of cheddar cheese adds a melty, irresistible finish.
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding vegetables, using different cheeses, or switching up the protein. It’s also a great make-ahead dish—just assemble it in advance and bake when you’re ready.
Whether served as a main dish for dinner or as a hearty side for a potluck, this tater tot casserole is always a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal, and enjoy every cheesy, crispy bite!
Servings and Timing
Servings: 6-8
Ready in: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Beef – In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Make the Sauce – Add diced onion and garlic to the beef, cooking until softened. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole – Spread the beef mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Add the Tater Tots – Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the beef and cheese mixture.
- Bake – Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are crispy and golden brown.
- Add More Cheese – Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the crispy tater tots and bake for another 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve – Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve hot!
Variations
- Veggie-Packed: Add frozen peas, carrots, or green beans to the beef mixture for extra nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
- Different Protein: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a new twist.
- Creamier Texture: Use cream of cheddar or cream of chicken soup instead of cream of mushroom.
- Bacon Upgrade: Sprinkle cooked, crumbled bacon on top before serving for extra smoky flavor.
Tips
- For extra crispy tater tots, bake them separately for 10 minutes before adding them to the casserole.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to help the flavors meld together.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
- Make it ahead by assembling the casserole and refrigerating it unbaked for up to 24 hours. Just bake as directed when ready to serve.
This Cheesy Ground Beef Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate easy, comforting meal that’s sure to become a household favorite. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a potluck, it’s guaranteed to be a hit!
