Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef — a hearty, easy comfort food recipe with creamy sauce, crispy tater tots, cheese, and simple steps perfect for family dinners.

Few dishes scream comfort food like a warm, cheesy Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe combines crispy tater tots, savory ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving something nostalgic, this casserole delivers both flavor and simplicity. Unlike other casseroles that can be dry or bland, this recipe balances textures and flavors for the ultimate cozy meal.

By the end of this article, you’ll not only know how to make a perfect Tater Tot Casserole, but also learn tips, variations, and storage advice to make this dish your go-to comfort meal.

Why This Tater Tot Casserole Works

This recipe stands out because it’s crispy, creamy, and cheesy all at once. The ground beef adds protein and heartiness, while the tater tots form a golden, crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

It’s versatile, family-friendly, and perfect for meal prep. Even picky eaters tend to love this dish, making it ideal for both weekday dinners and weekend gatherings.

Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef Ingredients

For the Casserole Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

For the Topping:

• 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional extra for topping)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup frozen peas or green beans
• ½ tsp smoked paprika or chili flakes for a subtle kick

Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef : Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• 9×13-inch casserole dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef : Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for a perfectly baked golden topping.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat:

1. Brown the ground beef until fully cooked.
2. Add diced onions and garlic; sauté until soft and fragrant.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Filling

1. Reduce heat to low.
2. Stir in cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and Worcestershire sauce until fully combined.
3. Add 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese and optional vegetables. Mix well.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Transfer the filling to your casserole dish.
2. Arrange the frozen tater tots evenly over the top.
3. Sprinkle with extra cheddar cheese if desired.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

1. Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
2. Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Pro Tip: For extra crispy tots, broil the casserole for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking.

Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef : Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g

Variations & Add-Ins

• Ground Turkey Version: Swap beef for ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Vegetable Boost: Add chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots to increase nutrition.
• Cheese Lovers: Mix mozzarella or Monterey Jack with cheddar for a gooey, melty topping.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the filling.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this casserole with:

• A simple green salad
• Garlic bread or dinner rolls
• Steamed vegetables for extra nutrients

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 45–50 minutes.
• Reheating: Microwave individual portions or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

• Soggy Tots: Don’t cover the casserole with foil; bake uncovered to keep tots crispy.
• Overcooked Filling: Cook only until the cheese melts and the sauce is bubbly to prevent dryness.
• Underseasoning: Taste the filling before adding tots and adjust salt/pepper accordingly.

LEARN MORE :

• 20+ Easy effortless Slow Cooker Drop Dinners
• Easy Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Meatballs with Gnocchi
• Easy Beef Stroganoff Slow Cooker Recipe
• Slow Cooker Beef Brisket with BBQ Sauce
• BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Instant Pot or Slow Cooker

Printable Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef recipe

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
A: Absolutely. Slice or cube potatoes, parboil them, and layer them on top of the casserole.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Check the cream of mushroom soup label, as some contain gluten. Use a gluten-free version if needed.

Q: Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
A: Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger casserole dish.

Q: How do I make this healthier?
A: Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt, use lean ground beef, and add more vegetables.

Conclusion
This Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food recipe — cheesy, hearty, and easy to make. It’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or anytime you crave a satisfying, one-dish meal. Try it tonight and watch it disappear from the table!