Cheesy Ground Beef Tater Tot

This cheesy ground beef tater tot casserole is a go-to comfort food I reach for during busy weeks or cold evenings when the whole family craves something warm and filling. Layers of seasoned beef and melty cheese under crispy golden tater tots make it a true crowd-pleaser you can get on the table with minimal fuss.

The first time I made this casserole my kitchen instantly filled with the kind of smells that draw people out of their rooms. Now my kids ask for it every time they see tater tots in the freezer.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: choose eighty five percent lean for best flavor without too much grease
• Onion: diced small so it softens into the beef base
• Garlic: fresh minced garlic gives more flavor than jarred or powdered
• Cream of mushroom soup: delivers creamy body and mild earthy notes
• Sour cream: brings tang and helps balance the richness
• Milk: whole or two percent for a lush texture
• Worcestershire sauce: gives deep savory backbone
• Salt and black pepper: basics for seasoning every layer
• Garlic powder and paprika: add warmth and color plus extra punch of flavor
• Shredded cheddar cheese: always shred it fresh if you can for smoother melting
• Frozen tater tots: choose a brand with a fluffy center and a golden finish
• Chopped parsley: optional but brightens up the finished dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the oven and dish:

Set your oven to three seventy five degrees Fahrenheit and grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze

Brown the beef:

In a large skillet over medium heat cook the ground beef until it is no longer pink taking time to break it into crumbles. Drain any excess fat from the pan so your casserole is not greasy

Build the flavor:

Add the diced onion and minced garlic into the skillet. Cook three to five minutes or until the onion starts looking translucent and everything smells fragrant. Stir in the mushroom soup sour cream milk Worcestershire salt black pepper garlic powder and paprika. Mix until everything looks creamy and smooth

Assemble the casserole base:

Spread the beef mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish making sure you reach all the corners. Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar on top so it gets extra melty underneath the tater tots

Top with tater tots:

Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single neat layer over the cheese and beef mixture. This helps them bake up evenly crispy

First bake:

Slide the dish into your preheated oven for thirty to thirty five minutes. Watch for bubbly edges and golden brown tater tots on top

Add final cheese:

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese in an even layer over the hot crisped tater tots. Return the dish to the oven for another five minutes just until the cheese is gooey and melted

Finish and serve:

Take the casserole out and let it sit for a few minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if you like. Serve hot so you get those cheesy stretchy bites

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Cheese is the soul of this casserole for me. A good sharp cheddar makes every bite irresistible I always sneak a handful for myself before topping the casserole. My kids still try to sneak extra tater tots when they help me assemble it and that is become a family tradition in our house.

Storage Tips

Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. For longer storage cut cooled casserole into portions and freeze for up to two months. Reheat covered in the oven or microwave until hot throughout and add a sprinkle of fresh cheese if you like when reheating to refresh its texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can stand in for beef if you prefer a lighter dish. Greek yogurt works as a sour cream swap for extra protein and a tangy flavor. Substitute any cream soup you like for the mushroom version sometimes I use cream of chicken or celery for variety. Monterey jack or pepper jack cheese can replace cheddar for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole stands well by itself but pairs nicely with a green salad dressed simply with lemon juice and olive oil. For extra veggies you can fold in thawed frozen peas corn or diced bell peppers after the beef is browned. It is also great served alongside pickles or with a drizzle of hot sauce for the adults.

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A Comfort Food Classic

This dish traces back to classic American potluck culture where casseroles reign supreme for their convenience and ability to feed a crowd without fuss. Tater tots turn everyday ingredients into something crave worthy with their comfort and nostalgia. Every bite tastes like home.

Common Queries

→ Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup?

Yes, you can use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile, or try a homemade white sauce for more control over ingredients.

→ How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Swap out the ground beef for meatless crumbles or lentils, and choose a plant-based cream soup and cheese alternative to keep it satisfying and flavorful.

→ What cheese works best for this meal?

Sharp cheddar offers a bold taste and melts smoothly, but Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses can be used for variety and added richness.

→ Can this meal be prepared ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble everything except the tater tots, refrigerate, then add the tots and bake when ready to serve for best texture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Cool leftovers completely, then cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain tater tot crispiness.