Family Favorite Tater Tot Casserole

A comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole layered with savory ground beef, creamy sauce, cheese, and crispy tater tots—perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.

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Ingredients

• Meats: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (85% lean recommended)
• Vegetables: 1 medium onion, finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 cup (150 g) frozen peas and carrots
• Sauces & Dairy: 1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) condensed cream of mushroom soup, 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk, 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese, divided, 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce, Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Topping: 1 bag (32 oz / 900 g) frozen tater tots

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.

Step 2:

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5 7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3:

Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2 3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 4:

Stir in frozen peas and carrots. Cook for 2 more minutes.

Step 5:

Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, 1 cup (100 g) cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and heated through.

Step 6:

Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Step 7:

Sprinkle 1/2 cup (50 g) cheddar cheese over the beef layer.

Step 8:

Arrange frozen tater tots in a single, even layer on top.

Step 9:

Bake uncovered for 35 minutes. Remove from oven, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup (50 g) cheddar cheese over the tater tots, and bake for another 10 minutes, until cheese is melted and tots are golden brown.

Step 10:

Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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Notes

For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or swap in ground turkey for a lighter version. Substitute cream of chicken soup if desired. Serve with a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Required Tools

Large skillet 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish Mixing spoon Measuring cups and spoons Oven

Nutritional Information

Calories: 480 Total Fat: 28 g Carbohydrates: 35 g Protein: 20 g

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Recipe FAQ

→ What type of ground beef is best for this casserole?

85% lean ground beef strikes a good balance, providing enough fat for flavor while keeping the dish from becoming greasy.

→ Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup?

Yes, cream of chicken soup works well as an alternative, adding a slightly different but still creamy base.

→ How do I ensure the tater tots stay crispy?

Bake uncovered and add cheese after initial baking to allow tots to brown and maintain a crispy topping.

→ Is it possible to add vegetables to this casserole?

Absolutely, frozen peas and carrots are included here, but you could also add corn or green beans based on preference.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it in advance and refrigerate; bake just before serving to ensure freshness and crisp topping.