Description
A cozy Midwestern-style casserole with a savory ground beef and creamy sauce base, topped with a blanket of golden, crispy tater tots and melty cheddar—easy, budget-friendly comfort food the whole table loves.
Ingredients
Ground beef, 1 lb (lean recommended)
Frozen tater tots, 1 bag (about 32 oz)
Cream of mushroom soup, 1 can (10.5 oz) or cream of chicken
Milk, 1/2 cup
Shredded cheddar cheese, 1 1/2 cups (reserve 1/2 cup for topping)
Onion, 1 medium, chopped
Garlic, 2 cloves, minced
Frozen mixed vegetables, 1 cup (optional)
Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon (optional)
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Cooking spray or oil, for greasing dish
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook ground beef and chopped onion in a large skillet over medium heat until beef is browned and onion softened; drain excess fat.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant; remove skillet from heat.
4. Mix in cream of mushroom soup, milk, 1 cup shredded cheddar, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire (if using); fold in frozen mixed vegetables if using.
5. Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
6. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer over the beef mixture.
7. Bake 30–35 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and tater tots are golden and crisp.
8. Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup cheddar over the tots during the last 5–10 minutes to melt.
9. Remove from oven, rest a few minutes to set, then serve.
Notes
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño for heat.
Swap cheeses—Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend work great.
Boost veggies with bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
Use cream of celery or cheese soup for a different flavor.
Stir a few tablespoons of BBQ sauce into the beef for a smoky twist.
Finish with sliced green onions or a dollop of sour cream for freshness.
Make ahead: assemble, cover, and refrigerate; add 5–10 minutes to bake time.
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked Casserole
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: tater tot casserole, ground beef, easy dinner, weeknight meal, comfort food, casserole