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The Ultimate Comfort Food: A Deep Dive into Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

The Ultimate Comfort Food: A Deep Dive into Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

This cozy Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate comfort food — savory ground beef, creamy mushroom sauce, gooey melted cheese, and a layer of golden, crispy tater tots. It’s hearty, family-friendly, and incredibly easy to whip together for busy weeknights or potluck dinners.

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, onion powder, or your favorite spices

Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2️⃣ Cook the Ground Beef

In a large 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.

3️⃣ Add the Cream Mixture

Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream.
Cook for 2–3 minutes, until warmed through.

4️⃣ Build the Casserole

Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
Spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom.

5️⃣ Add Cheese Layer

Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef.

6️⃣ Add Tater Tots

Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.

7️⃣ Bake

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.

8️⃣ Final Cheese Topping

Remove from oven, sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese, and bake for 5 more minutes, or until melted and bubbly.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest melt.

  • Add veggies like corn, peas, or green beans for more texture and color.

  • Try different soups: cream of chicken or cream of cheddar work great.

  • Make it spicy: add jalapeños, hot sauce, or pepper jack cheese.

  • Make ahead: assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.