Tater Tot Ground Beef Casserole

This tater tot casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines creamy, savory beef and cheese layers topped with crispy golden tater tots. It’s a one-pan meal that has become a go-to for busy weeknights and family dinners when everyone wants something hearty without a lot of fuss.

I first made this when I needed something easy but satisfying for a family night. Now it’s requested regularly, especially in colder months when cozy food hits the spot.

Ingredients

• Lean ground beef: adds rich, meaty flavor and protein — choose 85 percent lean or leaner for less fat
• Medium onion: provides sweetness and depth; look for firm onions without soft spots
• Garlic: adds aromatic warmth; fresh cloves give the best flavor
• Worcestershire sauce: amplifies the savory notes; a little goes a long way
• Italian seasoning: gives a mild herbaceous touch; pick a blend with oregano and basil
• Sour cream: creates creaminess and slight tang; use full-fat for best texture
• Condensed cream of mushroom soup: thickens the filling and adds umami; classic canned soup works fine
• Canned corn: adds a pop of sweetness and texture; drain well to avoid excess moisture
• Shredded cheddar cheese: melts beautifully and gives sharpness; use freshly shredded for better melting
• Frozen tater tots: are the star topping; select crispy style if you can find them
• Salt and pepper: for seasoning to taste
• Chopped scallions: add fresh color and mild onion flavor if you like

Instructions

Sear the Beef and Onions:

Add the ground beef and chopped onions to a skillet over medium-high heat. Break up the meat as it cooks. Stir occasionally until the beef is well browned and the onions have softened, about 7 to 8 minutes. If too much fat accumulates, carefully spoon most of it out but leave a little for flavor.

Add Aromatics and Seasonings:

Stir minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning into the beef mixture. Cook for about one minute until fragrant, stirring constantly so the garlic does not burn.

Incorporate Creamy Elements and Corn:

Lower heat to medium and mix in the sour cream, condensed mushroom soup, drained corn, and half a cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir thoroughly to combine and let the mixture warm through for a minute or two.

Assemble the Casserole:

Transfer this creamy beef mixture evenly into a 9x13 casserole dish. If you have a large oven-safe skillet, you can assemble it there for convenience.

Add Cheese and Tater Tot Topping:

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the beef layer. Then cover fully with an even layer of frozen tater tots.

Bake Until Golden and Bubbling:

Place the casserole in the upper third of a preheated 375 degrees Fahrenheit oven. Bake uncovered for 45 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese is hot and bubbly. Serve topped with chopped scallions and add salt and pepper to your liking.

I love the contrast between the crispy tater tots and the creamy filling. One family dinner memory that sticks with me is when my kids insisted on adding extra cheese because they said it made the casserole “perfectly gooey.” It’s a dish that brings everyone to the table and warms more than just the belly.

Storage Tips

Leftovers store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven to keep the tater tots crispy, or microwave for convenience but expect softer tots.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken works instead of beef for a lighter version. Use cream of celery soup if you prefer a different mushroom soup flavor. Swap tater tots for diced potatoes or hash browns if necessary but expect a different texture.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans to balance the richness. A dollop of sour cream or hot sauce on top can add an extra layer of flavor.

This classic casserole not only satisfies hungry families but also offers flexible options to suit any season or taste preference.

FAQs about Recipes

→ Can I prepare the dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the layers in the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What is the best cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar adds a nice tang and melts well, but you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for varied flavors.

→ Can I substitute the ground beef?

Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative, adjusting seasoning as needed for flavor.

→ How do I ensure the tater tots get crispy?

Bake uncovered on the top rack and avoid overcrowding to allow proper heat circulation for crisping.

→ Can I add vegetables for more nutrition?

Yes, adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas works well and complements the flavors nicely.

→ Is there a way to make the dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free mushroom soup and verify all seasonings are gluten-free to adapt safely.