Why Make This Recipe
Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. It’s easy to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and is perfect for feeding a crowd. This recipe combines savory ground beef, creamy mushrooms, and crispy tater tots, making it a family favorite. Moreover, it’s a great way to get kids excited about dinner!
How to Make Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef
Ingredients
- 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
Directions
1️⃣ Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2️⃣ Cook the ground beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Add diced onions and cook until they soften. Season with salt, pepper, and any optional spices like garlic powder or paprika. Drain any excess fat.
3️⃣ Combine with cream sauce: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream, mixing well with the beef. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
4️⃣ Layer in the casserole dish: Grease a casserole dish and spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom.
5️⃣ Add cheese layer: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
6️⃣ Add tater tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.
7️⃣ Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
8️⃣ Add final cheese layer: Remove the casserole from the oven and top with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9️⃣ Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef
This casserole is best served hot. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a side salad for a balanced meal. Each serving can be garnished with fresh herbs or extra cheese for added flavor.
How to Store Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place portions in the microwave or in the oven until heated through.
Tips to Make Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef
- For extra flavor, consider using different spices like Italian seasoning or your favorite hot sauce.
- If you prefer a thicker casserole, reduce the amount of cream of mushroom soup.
- To make it more colorful and nutritious, add vegetables like bell peppers or peas.
Variation
You can easily switch up this recipe by using different types of meat, such as ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian option, try using black beans or lentils instead of meat.
FAQs
Can I make Tater Tot Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover it, and keep it in the fridge. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Can I freeze Tater Tot Casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the casserole before baking. Just wrap it well in plastic wrap, and it will keep for about 2-3 months. Bake it straight from the freezer; just add extra time.
What can I serve with Tater Tot Casserole?
It pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or even cornbread for a comforting meal.

Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef
A comforting dish that combines ground beef, creamy mushrooms, and crispy tater tots, perfect for feeding a crowd.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Add diced onions and cook until softened. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream, mixing well with the beef. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Grease a casserole dish and spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.
- Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and top with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider using different spices or adding vegetables like bell peppers. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: tater tot casserole, ground beef, easy dinner, family meal, comfort food
