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Tater Tot Casserole (Crispy, Cheesy & Classic Comfort Food)
Isla Marie

Tater Tot Casserole

A classic comfort food casserole made with seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, melted cheese, and topped with crispy golden tater tots. It’s rich, hearty, and perfect for family dinners or easy meal prep.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients:
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables optional
  • 1 can 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 bag 32 oz frozen tater tots

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Baking dish (9x13 inch)
  • Mixing spoon or spatula
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

Step 1. Preheat Oven
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
Step 2. Cook Beef
  1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and chopped onion until browned. Drain excess fat.
Step 3. Mix Filling
  1. Add mixed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
Step 4. Assemble Base
  1. Transfer the beef mixture into the baking dish and spread evenly.
Step 5. Add Cheese Layer
  1. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture.
Step 6. Add Tater Tots
  1. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.
Step 7. Bake
  1. Bake for 35–40 minutes until tater tots are golden and crispy.
Step 8. Finish and Serve
  1. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes until melted. Let rest briefly before serving.

Video

Notes

  • Drain beef well to avoid a greasy casserole.
  • Do not overcrowd tater tots for maximum crispiness.
  • Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.
  • Add extra seasoning or spices for more flavor.
  • Can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.