Get Ready to Dig In!

Picture this: a bubbling, cheesy casserole topped with golden, crispy tater tots. Yep, that’s the magic of Tater Tot Casserole! This dish delivers all the comfort you’d want in a meal, and it’s made in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. It’s like your childhood favorite made even better, and it’ll have everyone asking for seconds (and possibly thirds). Seriously, who can resist such a cozy and creamy combo?

Why Make This Recipe

Here are a few reasons why this delectable dish deserves a spot on your dinner table:

Super easy: You can have this whipped up in no time, even on a busy weeknight. Just brown some meat, toss everything together, and let the oven do the magic.
Family-approved: Kids love it, and adults do too! Tater tots have that universal appeal, and the creamy filling will keep everyone happy.
Budget-friendly: You won’t break the bank making this dish. It’s packed with affordable ingredients that you probably already have hanging around your pantry.

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

1 lb ground beef
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1 bag (32 oz) tater tots
1/2 cup onion, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Ready to create your new favorite casserole? Let’s dive in!

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat afterward.
Toss in the chopped onion and cook until it softens up.
Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and season with salt and pepper.
Spread the beef mixture evenly in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Top it off with the cheddar cheese.
Finally, arrange the tater tots on top of the cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until the tater tots are crispy and golden.
Serve hot and enjoy your comforting dinner!

How to Make Tater Tot Casserole (Overview)

Creating this tasty casserole is as simple as it gets! Start by preheating your oven and browning the beef. Once that’s done, throw in the onions until they soften up like a comforting hug. Mix in the cream of mushroom soup, and you’re ready to assemble! Spread that mixture, sprinkle cheese, and place those tater tots like they own the place. Bake until everything’s bubbling and toasty, and voilà! Dinner is served.

Pro tip: For extra crunch, let it bake a little longer!

How to Serve Tater Tot Casserole

Serve this delightful casserole hot from the oven! The golden brown tater tots contrast beautifully against the creamy and savory filling. You can add a pop of color with a fresh green salad or even a side of roasted veggies for a splash of brightness. The aroma? It’ll have everyone flocking to the table faster than you can say “dinner is ready!”

How to Store Tater Tot Casserole

Love your dinner leftovers? You’re in luck! This casserole keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you want to save it longer, pop it in the freezer, where it’ll last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat in the oven for that crispy goodness or microwave it if you’re in a rush.

Tips to Make Tater Tot Casserole

Want to make this dish even better? Here are some tips:

Swap the meat: Ground turkey or chicken works just as well if you’re looking for a leaner option!
Add some greens: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale for a nutritional boost and extra color.
Mix up the cheese: Go wild with a blend of cheese for added flavor — Italian blend, pepper jack, or even a smoky gouda would be delicious!

Variation

Feel like changing things up? Make a vegan version by using lentils or black beans instead of ground beef and swap the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade vegan version. You could also experiment with different toppings — think spicy seasonings or even adding some salsa for a kick!

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze Tater Tot Casserole?
Yes, it freezes beautifully! Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn, and you’re all set.

What can I serve with Tater Tot Casserole?
Consider a fresh salad, some steamed broccoli, or even garlic bread. You can’t go wrong with those!

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!