Few dishes bring back childhood comfort quite like a Simple and Delicious Tater Tot Casserole Recipe. I remember the first time I made it for my own family—crispy golden tater tots layered over creamy beef and vegetable filling, all baked together until bubbly and cheesy. It disappeared in minutes! This casserole is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or when you just want cozy comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a guaranteed hit every time.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
Optional: green onions or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, cook ground beef and onion until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Stir in cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and mixed vegetables. Simmer for 2 minutes.
- Spread beef mixture evenly into a greased 9×13 baking dish.
- Sprinkle half the cheese on top. Arrange tater tots in a single layer over filling.
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until tots are golden and crispy.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese on top and bake 5 more minutes until melted.
- Garnish with green onions or parsley before serving.
Substitutions
- No ground beef? Use ground turkey or chicken.
- No cream of mushroom soup? Try cream of chicken or a homemade white sauce.
- Vegetarian version: Skip beef and add black beans or lentils.
- Cheese options: Colby Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack work great.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- 9×13 baking dish
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese grater
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 4 days.
Freezer: Assemble casserole (uncooked) and freeze up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to cook time.
Reheating: Reheat in oven at 350°F until warmed through and crispy.
Top Tips
- Arrange tater tots in neat rows for the best crispy finish.
- Always bake uncovered to keep the tots crunchy.
- Use freshly shredded cheese—it melts smoother than pre-shredded.
- Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce to beef mixture for extra flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready.
Do I need to thaw the tater tots first?
No, use them frozen so they stay crispy while baking.
Can I add more veggies?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms make great additions.
What can I serve with this casserole?
A fresh green salad balances the richness perfectly.