Simple and Delicious Tater Tot Casserole Recipe 🥔🧀🍽️
Cozy, cheesy, and downright irresistible — this Simple and Delicious Tater Tot Casserole is a true family favorite! 💛 Crispy golden tater tots are layered over a creamy beef and vegetable filling, topped with gooey melted cheese, and baked until bubbling perfection. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, potluck, or holiday side dish, this casserole delivers comfort in every bite.
⏱️ Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 40 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 6–8
Ingredients:
For the beef layer:
1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp paprika
Salt & pepper to taste
For the topping:
1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese blend)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the beef mixture:
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess fat. Add onion and garlic, cooking for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, vegetables, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes until everything is creamy and well combined.
2. Prepare the casserole dish:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom.
3. Add the tater tots:
Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the beef filling.
4. Bake:
Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, until tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
5. Add the cheese:
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and bake for an additional 5–7 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish & serve:
Remove from oven, let rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy, crispy, hearty goodness!
Tips & Variations:
✅ Swap beef for ground chicken, sausage, or turkey.
✅ Use cream of celery soup for a lighter twist.
✅ Spice it up with jalapeños or hot sauce in the beef mix.
✅ Make ahead: assemble, cover, and refrigerate overnight, then bake when ready.
✅ Freeze leftovers in portions for quick heat-and-eat meals.