Tater Tot Casserole is a classic comfort food that’s crispy, cheesy, and filled with hearty goodness. It’s made with layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and topped with golden, crunchy tater tots that everyone loves to dig into. The combination of textures and flavors makes this dish a warm and satisfying meal any day of the week.
I’ve always enjoyed making this casserole because it’s so simple to prepare and feeds a crowd without much fuss. One of my favorite things to do is sneak in some extra veggies like diced onions or bell peppers to add a little freshness. The tater tots on top get super crispy in the oven, which is my favorite part — it adds that perfect crunchy finish.
When I serve this casserole, I usually pair it with a simple green salad or steamed broccoli to balance out all the rich flavors. It’s the kind of dish that instantly brings back memories of cozy family dinners and lazy weekends. Honestly, if you’re looking for a meal that’s easy, tasty, and sure to make everyone happy, this tater tot casserole is a great go-to.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This adds the main hearty flavor. If you want a lighter version, ground turkey or chicken works well. For a vegetarian twist, try cooked lentils or a plant-based meat substitute.
Onion: Finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth. If you’re short on time, onion powder is a fine substitute, though fresh onion gives the best flavor.
Condensed cream of mushroom soup: This creates a creamy, comforting sauce. You can swap it with cream of chicken or celery soup for a different taste. For dairy-free, try making a simple white sauce with plant milk and flour.
Tater tots: The crispy topping is the star of the dish. You can use frozen hash browns shredded or in chunks for a twist. Make sure to keep them frozen before baking to get them extra crispy.
Cheddar cheese: Cheddar melts nicely and adds richness. Use any melting cheese you like, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack. For a sharper taste, try a mild cheddar mixed with pepper jack.
How Do I Get My Tater Tots Crispy Without Burning the Rest of the Casserole?
Keeping your tater tots crispy and golden while the casserole cooks through is key. Here’s what helps:
- Use frozen tater tots straight from the freezer, don’t thaw them beforehand.
- Arrange tater tots in a single layer so they bake evenly and crisp up well.
- Cover the casserole with foil for the first 20 minutes of baking, then remove it to let the tots crisp fully under direct heat.
- Place the casserole on the middle oven rack to avoid burning the bottom or browning too fast at the top.
- Let the casserole rest 5 minutes after baking—this helps the sauce thicken and keeps the tater tots from getting soggy as you serve.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking ground beef and onions evenly without crowding the pan.
- Mixing bowl – handy for whisking the soup and milk together for a smooth sauce.
- 9×13-inch casserole dish – this size fits the layers nicely and bakes the casserole evenly.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – great for breaking up the meat and stirring the ingredients.
- Measuring cups – helps keep ingredient amounts accurate for best results.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter, leaner option.
- Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms with the onions for extra veggies and flavor.
- Mix in a teaspoon of chili powder or smoked paprika to give it a subtle smoky kick.
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese to add a little spicy creaminess on top.
How to Make Tater Tot Casserole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 32 oz (about 4 cups) frozen tater tots
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or cooking oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 35-40 minutes to bake. You’ll need a few minutes to rest the casserole after baking. So, plan for roughly 1 hour from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat and Veggies:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if you’re using it. Stir in the frozen peas (if you want) and cook for another minute.
2. Mix the Sauce and Combine:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the beef and stir well. Let it gently simmer for 2-3 minutes to warm through.
3. Assemble and Bake:
Pour the beef mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the meat. Arrange the frozen tater tots evenly on top, covering the surface. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the tater tots. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
It’s best to use thawed ground beef for even cooking. If using frozen, thaw it completely in the fridge overnight or use the defrost function on your microwave before cooking.
Can I Make Tater Tot Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to keep the tater tots crispy.
Can I Add More Vegetables to the Casserole?
Yes! Adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn works great. Just cook them with the onions to soften before adding the meat.
