When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with a warm, cheesy, and satisfying Tater Tot Casserole. This dish is a perfect combination of crispy tater tots, creamy beef filling, and gooey melted cheese, making it an instant family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner, a hearty meal to feed a crowd, or a nostalgic dish that brings back childhood memories, this cheesy ground beef tater tot casserole has it all. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few pantry staples and minimal prep time.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Tater Tot Casserole
To prepare this delicious tater tot casserole with ground beef, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef – Provides a rich, savory flavor as the base of the dish.
- 1 small onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the taste with a bold, aromatic flavor.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup – Creates a creamy, flavorful sauce that binds everything together.
- ½ cup sour cream – Adds tanginess and richness to the filling.
- ½ cup milk – Helps to thin out the sauce for a smoother consistency.
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce – Gives the casserole a slightly tangy, umami flavor.
- 1 tsp salt – Balances and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- ½ tsp black pepper – Adds a hint of spice.
- ½ tsp garlic powder – Boosts the savory notes of the dish.
- ½ tsp paprika – Adds warmth and subtle smokiness.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into gooey perfection, making the casserole extra cheesy.
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots – The crispy topping that makes this dish irresistible.
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish) – Adds a pop of color and freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make the Best Tater Tot Casserole
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned and no longer pink. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks to ensure even cooking. If there’s excess grease, drain it to prevent the casserole from becoming too oily.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for a few minutes until the onions become soft and translucent. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix everything thoroughly until the sauce is smooth and well-combined. This mixture will serve as the delicious, creamy base of your casserole.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Pour the beef and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Next, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture, ensuring even coverage.
5. Add the Tater Tots
Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the beef and cheese mixture. You can place them in neat rows or scatter them randomly—either way, they will crisp up beautifully in the oven.
6. Bake Until Crispy
Transfer the casserole to the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy. This step is essential to achieving that irresistible crunch that makes this dish so special.
7. Add More Cheese and Finish Baking
Once the tater tots are crispy, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. For an extra touch of freshness, sprinkle chopped parsley on top. Serve hot and enjoy this creamy, cheesy, crispy delight!
Why You’ll Love This Tater Tot Casserole
- Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this dish is great for busy nights.
- Super Cheesy – Packed with melted cheddar, this casserole is a cheese-lover’s dream.
- Kid-Friendly – The crispy tater tots and creamy beef filling make this a favorite among children.
- Perfect for Leftovers – This casserole tastes just as good the next day, making it an excellent meal prep option.
