Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe

There’s something magical about a hot dish bubbling away in the oven, filling your kitchen with an aroma that could make even the most reluctant eater swoon. Imagine layers of crispy tater tots nestled upon a savory ground beef mixture, oozing cheese, and loaded with flavors that practically sing. Yes, we’re talking about the champion of comfort food: tater tot casserole with ground beef.

This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners when you need something hearty and satisfying. I remember the first time I made it for my friends; they were skeptical at first but ended up licking their plates clean—no judgment here! Now that’s what I call a culinary triumph!

Once during a family gathering, this divine casserole was the undisputed star of the meal; everyone asked for seconds and even thirds.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works best for a flavorful base without excess grease.
• Tater Tots: Frozen or homemade; either option creates that crispy topping we all love.
• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar gives the dish its cheesy goodness and melty texture.
• Onion: Diced onion adds sweetness and depth; sauté until translucent for best results.
• Frozen Mixed Vegetables: A colorful mix of peas and carrots adds nutrition and visual appeal.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: This creamy soup binds everything together; feel free to use low-fat options.
• Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder elevates the flavor profile without overwhelming it.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all those delightful flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you gather your ingredients. Grab a large skillet over medium heat and add your ground beef. Cook until browned and crumbled—about 7-10 minutes—draining any excess fat once it’s cooked through.

Next, toss in your diced onion and continue cooking until they turn translucent and release their sweet aroma—around 3-5 minutes should do it. Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables along with garlic powder, salt, and pepper; let them mingle for another 3 minutes.

Now comes the fun part! Pour in that luscious cream of mushroom soup over the meat mixture. Mix well until everything is combined into a creamy goodness that’ll have you dreaming about dinner already.

Take out a baking dish (about 9×13 inches works great) and spread your hearty mixture evenly across the bottom. Then blanket it generously with those glorious frozen tater tots—this is where things get crunchy!

Finally, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top like confetti at a party! Pop your casserole into the oven for about 25-30 minutes or until those tots turn golden brown and crispy while the cheese bubbles invitingly.

Let it cool slightly before serving; trust me—it’ll be worth it as you enjoy those fantastic flavors mingling together on your plate!

Serve this delightful tater tot casserole with ground beef alongside a light salad or perhaps some warm garlic bread to soak up all that deliciousness. Your family will be singing praises long after dinner’s done!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef and then layering your ingredients in the baking dish. Finally, top with tater tots for a crispy finish.

Add Your Touch

Consider adding veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. You can also experiment with different cheese blends.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat it in the oven for best results.

Cooking this tater tot casserole with ground beef reminds me of family game nights where laughter filled the air and everyone fought over that last crispy tot. It’s more than just food; it’s memories!

FAQ

Can I use turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, turkey is a leaner alternative that works well in this casserole.

How long should I bake the casserole?

Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble it beforehand and bake when ready to serve.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Delicious Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Delight in a hearty tater tot casserole with ground beef, featuring crispy tots and cheesy goodness. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 32 oz frozen tater tots
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas and carrots)
• 10.5 oz can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt & pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef (about 7-10 minutes); drain excess fat.
3. Add diced onion to the skillet and sauté until translucent (3-5 minutes).
4. Stir in frozen mixed vegetables, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; cook for another 3 minutes.
5. Mix in the cream of mushroom soup until well combined.
6. Spread the mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Top with frozen tater tots, then sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes until tots are golden brown and cheese is bubbly.

Notes

• For added flavor, consider mixing in bell peppers or mushrooms.
• Swap out cheddar for your favorite cheese blend.
•  Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days; best reheated in the oven.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole (approximately 348g)
• Calories: 510
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 80mg