There are dinners that feel like a quick fix, and then there are dinners that feel like a hug in a dish. This Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is definitely the latter. Crispy tater tots, melty cheese, and a creamy beef filling come together in one bubbly bake that screams comfort food recipe. It’s hearty, family-friendly, and just the kind of cheesy tater tot bake that makes weeknights feel special without demanding hours in the kitchen.
If you grew up on casseroles, this one might taste like a trip down memory lane. And if it’s new to you, get ready to discover why this easy family dinner has earned cult status in so many households across America.
Why You’ll Love This Tater Tot Casserole
- Easy prep: Just 10 minutes of hands-on time.
- One-dish wonder: Bake, serve, and clean up with minimal fuss.
- Cheesy and crispy: The best of both worlds in every bite.
- Customizable: Swap spices, cheese, or add veggies for your own twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 small onion, diced (about 2.5 oz)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp paprika, or your favorite spices
How to Make It
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat for 6–7 minutes until browned. Add diced onion and sauté 3–4 minutes until softened. Drain fat.
- Season beef with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
- Stir in cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. Simmer 2–3 minutes until creamy.
- Spread beef mixture into prepared dish. Sprinkle with 1 cup cheddar cheese.
- Arrange tater tots in an even layer on top.
- Bake uncovered 25–30 minutes until tater tots are golden and crisp.
- Sprinkle with remaining cheese and bake 5 minutes more until melted.
- Rest 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Tater Tot Casserole
- Cheese lovers unite: Mix in some mozzarella or pepper jack for an extra gooey finish.
- Add veggies: Frozen peas, corn, or green beans can be stirred into the beef mixture for more texture and nutrition.
- Crispy factor: Want extra crunch? Broil for 2 minutes at the end, but watch closely.
- Soup swap: Cream of chicken or cream of celery soup works just as well if mushroom isn’t your favorite.
And don’t stress if your tots shift a little during baking—perfect rows are optional. Flavor isn’t!
My Personal Take on This Dish
Growing up, casseroles were a weeknight staple in my family, and this cheesy tater tot bake became the one everyone looked forward to most. I’ll never forget the first time I made it for my kids—they went back for seconds (and thirds), which in my house is the ultimate seal of approval. Now, whenever the weather turns chilly or someone’s had a rough day, this is the recipe I reach for. It’s comfort on a plate, and it never disappoints.
What to Serve with Tater Tot Casserole
This casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own, but a couple of simple sides make it shine:
- Fresh salad: A crisp green salad balances the richness.
- Roasted veggies: Think roasted carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts.
- Bread option: Warm dinner rolls or garlic bread are always a hit.
- Pickles: Yep, a tangy dill pickle on the side cuts through the creamy richness perfectly.
How to Store Leftovers
- Fridge: Store tightly covered for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes to keep the tots crispy, or microwave if you’re short on time.
- Freezer: Freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight, then bake as directed.
Pro tip: If freezing after baking, reheat uncovered so the tots don’t go soggy.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works well if you want something lighter.
Do I have to use cream of mushroom soup?
Not at all. Cream of chicken, celery, or even a homemade béchamel sauce can be swapped in.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Definitely. Assemble up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
What if I don’t have sour cream?
Greek yogurt is a great substitute—it adds the same creaminess with a little tang.
There’s just something magical about a dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles before the first bite. This Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef does exactly that. It’s the definition of a comfort food recipe—simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to become a regular in your weeknight rotation.
Discover more delicious recipes by following me on Facebook and Pinterest.
Print
Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef
- Total Time: 45–50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food classic. With layers of creamy beef filling, melted cheese, and crispy golden tater tots, it’s a hearty, family-friendly meal that’s as nostalgic as it is delicious. Easy to make with just 10 minutes of prep, this cheesy tater tot bake is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
-
1 lb (450 g) ground beef
-
1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) cream of mushroom soup
-
½ cup (120 g) sour cream
-
1 small onion, diced (about 2.5 oz / 70 g)
-
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
-
1 bag (32 oz / 900 g) frozen tater tots
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
-
Optional: 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp paprika, or other favorite spices
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
-
In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat 6–7 minutes until browned. Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until softened. Drain fat.
-
Season beef with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
-
Stir in cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. Simmer 2–3 minutes until creamy.
-
Spread beef mixture evenly into prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with 1 cup cheddar cheese.
-
Arrange tater tots in a single, even layer on top.
-
Bake uncovered 25–30 minutes until tater tots are golden and crisp.
-
Sprinkle with remaining cheese and bake 5 minutes more until melted.
-
Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Add frozen peas, corn, or green beans to the beef mixture for extra veggies.
Swap cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for a different cheesy finish.
For extra crispy tots, broil 2 minutes at the end.
Cream of chicken or celery soup can replace mushroom soup.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish / Casserole
- Method: Baked casserole
- Cuisine: American Comfort Food