why make this recipe

Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and warmth to the table. This dish is not only hearty and filling but also incredibly easy to prepare. It combines savory ground beef, creamy sauces, and crispy tater tots topped with gooey cheese, making it a favorite for families and gatherings. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen!

how to make Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

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, or any favorite spices

Directions:

Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the ground beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Add diced onions and cook until they soften. Season with salt, pepper, and any optional spices like garlic powder or paprika. Drain any excess fat.
Combine with cream sauce: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream, mixing well with the beef. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Layer in the casserole dish: Grease a casserole dish and spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom.
Add cheese layer: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
Add tater tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.
Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
Add final cheese layer: Remove the casserole from the oven and top with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.

how to serve Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

Serve Tater Tot Casserole warm straight from the oven. It pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also top it with some chopped green onions or fresh parsley for added flavor and color.

how to store Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It can last up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

tips to make Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

Make it a one-pot meal: You can add veggies like peas, corn, or bell peppers to the beef mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
Spice it up: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings to customize the taste to your liking.
Use fresh ingredients: If you prefer, you can use fresh ground beef and slice your onions instead of using frozen products.

variation

For a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, to change the flavor profile of the casserole.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and cover it. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

2. Can I freeze Tater Tot Casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked casserole. Just wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.

3. What can I serve with Tater Tot Casserole?
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or even some steamed broccoli to balance out the meal.