Tater Tot Casserole is a classic comfort food that brings together crispy, golden tater tots, savory ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce all in one cozy dish. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, with that crunchy top layer and soft, flavorful filling underneath.
I love making Tater Tot Casserole on busy weeknights because it’s so simple to put together, but it still feels special. One of my favorite things is to mix in some onions and green beans to add a little extra flavor and a bit of color. And whenever I make it, I find myself sneaking a tater tot or two while it’s baking—it’s just too tempting!
Serving Tater Tot Casserole feels like bringing a bit of nostalgia to the table. It’s always a hit with kids and adults alike, and I often serve it with a simple side salad or steamed veggies to balance out the meal. It’s a down-to-earth dinner that’s hearty and satisfying, perfect for sharing with family or friends.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of the dish, giving it a rich, meaty flavor. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian twist, try cooked lentils or plant-based crumbles.
Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess and helps bind the casserole. If you want to skip canned soup, mix some sour cream or cream cheese with a little broth and mushrooms sautéed in butter.
Tater Tots: The crispy topping everyone loves! You can use seasoned or plain tots. If you prefer, swap them for frozen hash browns, but they may not hold their shape as well.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives great tang. Feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella for stretch or pepper jack for a little kick.
How Do I Get Crispy, Golden Tater Tots on Top?
Getting tater tots perfectly crispy without overcooking the filling is key. To do this:
- Arrange the tots in a single layer so they cook evenly and don’t steam each other.
- Bake uncovered in a preheated oven (375°F) long enough for browning, usually 25-30 minutes.
- Adding cheese after the initial bake and giving a quick extra bake melts it without making tots soggy.
- If your tots aren’t crisping enough, finish with a broil for 1-2 minutes—but watch closely so they don’t burn!
Patience is important here—letting the tots crisp during baking rather than covering the dish helps keep that satisfying crunch.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I prefer this because it browns the beef and onions easily, saving on dishes.
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size to hold all the ingredients and allows for even baking.
- Mixing spoon or spatula – makes stirring the beef mixture and spreading it out quick and easy.
- Measuring cups and spoons – handy for keeping ingredients just right.
- Oven – you’ll need to bake until the topping is golden and crispy, so a standard oven is best.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked bacon bits and a sprinkle of crispy fried onions on top for an extra crunch and smoky flavor.
- Mix in chopped green chilies or diced jalapeños if you like a bit of heat in your casserole.
- Swap the cheddar for pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella for different cheese flavors.
- Add a splash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture for a deeper, tangy kick.
How to Make Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 30-35 minutes to bake. The total time is around 45-50 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef and Onion:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain any extra grease, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Mix in Soup, Milk, and Veggies:
Add the frozen mixed vegetables (if using), condensed cream of mushroom soup, and milk to the beef mixture. Stir well and heat for a few more minutes until everything is combined and warmed through.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef layer. Next, arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.
4. Bake and Add Cheese:
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy. Remove the dish from the oven, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top, and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle chopped green onions over the casserole for a fresh touch. Serve hot and enjoy your hearty, delicious Tater Tot Casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables in the Casserole?
Absolutely! Frozen mixed vegetables work great and add extra flavor and nutrition. Just toss them in with the beef mixture before baking—no need to thaw.
How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to keep the tater tots crispy. Microwaving may make them soggy.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover it well, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you prefer, use cream of chicken or celery soup, or make a quick homemade white sauce with butter, flour, milk, and sautéed mushrooms for a fresh take.