Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef (Easy, Cheesy Family Comfort Food)
This Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is a classic comfort-food dinner that’s creamy, cheesy, and topped with irresistibly crispy tater tots. Made with simple pantry ingredients, it’s easy to throw together and perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or feeding a hungry family.
Ingredients
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1 lb ground beef
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1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
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½ cup sour cream
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
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1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Seasonings
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Garlic powder
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Paprika
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Any favorite seasoning blend
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a casserole dish. -
Cook the Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Add the diced onion and cook until softened. Season with salt, pepper, and any optional spices. Drain excess fat. -
Make the Creamy Filling
Stir the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream into the beef mixture. Cook for 2–3 minutes until warmed through and well combined. -
Assemble the Casserole
Spread the beef mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. -
Add Tater Tots
Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese. -
Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the tater tots are golden and crispy. -
Finish with Cheese
Remove from the oven, sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese, and return to the oven for 5 minutes, or until melted and bubbly. -
Serve
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
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Crispier tots: Don’t overcrowd them—keep a single even layer on top.
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Extra flavor: Add Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika to the beef.
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Vegetable add-ins: Peas, corn, or green beans mix in well with the beef layer.
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Make ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
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Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.