There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm casserole on a chilly evening. I still remember the first time I made a tater tot casserole in my tiny kitchen. I was experimenting with whatever I had on hand—ground beef, some canned soup, and a bag of frozen tater tots that had been sitting in my freezer. What started as a simple meal turned into a family favorite, and I loved how everyone gathered around the table, laughing and enjoying every bite. It was one of those happy accidents that reminded me why I love cooking: it brings people together. If you’re looking for a way to create that same cozy atmosphere in your own home, then this Easy Tater Tot Casserole recipe is just what you need!
Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef
This casserole is not just another dish; it’s a warm hug on a plate! Here are a few reasons why it’s bound to become a staple in your home:
- It’s incredibly easy to make. Even if you’re a beginner, you’ll find this recipe straightforward and fun!
- The flavors are rich and satisfying, combining the savory goodness of ground beef with creamy soup and melty cheese.
- Tater tots on top bring that perfect crunch, making every bite a delightful experience.
- This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or even casual gatherings with friends—just pop it in the oven and let it do its thing!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk ingredients! This recipe uses simple, real ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional seasonings: garlic powder, paprika, or any favorite spices
You’ll find the full ingredient list with measurements in the recipe card below!
How to Make This Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef, Step-by-Step
Now, let’s dive into the cooking process! I promise you, it’s as easy as pie (or should I say, as easy as casserole?). Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time:
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when your casserole is ready to bake.
2️⃣ In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Once it’s starting to brown, toss in the diced onions and sauté until they’re soft. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper, and if you’re feeling adventurous, add some garlic powder or paprika for an extra kick!
3️⃣ Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and the sour cream, mixing everything together nicely. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
4️⃣ Grease a casserole dish (a 9×13 inch works great) and spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom.
5️⃣ Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture, letting it melt into all those savory flavors.
6️⃣ Now for the fun part—arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese. Don’t worry about making it perfect; a little chaos is part of the charm!
7️⃣ Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tater tots are golden and crispy. Just imagine that lovely aroma filling your kitchen!
8️⃣ Once it’s done, take it out and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top. Put it back in the oven for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9️⃣ Let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help avoid any hot cheese disasters!
Pro Tips for the Best Results
Here are a couple of tips to ensure your casserole turns out amazing:
- Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies! Peas, corn, or bell peppers can add color and nutrition to your dish.
- If you like a little heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- For an extra crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking—just keep an eye on it!
Serving Suggestions
This tater tot casserole is a meal in itself, but if you want to elevate your dinner, consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or some chopped green onions on top for that extra flair!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This casserole stores beautifully. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or pop it in the microwave for a quicker option. If you’re planning to make this ahead of time, you can assemble the casserole, cover it with foil, and keep it in the fridge for a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
So there you have it! An Easy Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef that’s perfect for any night of the week. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a meal that’s sure to warm hearts and bellies. I can’t wait for you to try it! Happy cooking, friends!
Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook beef with onions, seasonings, then stir in soup and sour cream. Simmer 2-3 mins.
- Spread beef mixture in greased dish, top with 1 cup cheese, then layer tater tots.
- Bake 25-30 mins until tater tots are golden. Top with remaining cheese, bake 5 mins.
- Let cool 5 mins before serving.