Description

There’s something about casseroles that evokes a sense of nostalgia and warmth, and Tater Tot Casserole is no exception. For many, this dish brings back memories of cozy dinners around the table, where the golden, crispy tater tots topping a creamy, hearty filling made every bite feel like a little celebration. This iconic comfort food has been a family favorite for generations, and it’s easy to see why.

Tater Tot Casserole is the perfect balance of flavors and textures — savory ground beef, tender vegetables, creamy sauce, and of course, those irresistible tots. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight, a potluck, or even meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe delivers a hearty, satisfying meal that everyone will love.

What makes this recipe special is how customizable it is. You can easily switch up the vegetables, play with different cheeses, or even use ground turkey instead of beef to suit your preferences. The best part? It’s so easy to make, you’ll have it prepped and in the oven in no time.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

Ground Beef: 1 pound of lean ground beef (or substitute ground turkey).
Sweet Onion: 1 small, diced.
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced.
Mixed Vegetables: 1 (15-ounce) can, drained (or use frozen vegetables, thawed).
Worcestershire Sauce: 1 teaspoon, for depth of flavor.
Hot Sauce: 1 teaspoon (optional, for a subtle kick).
Cream of Chicken Soup: 1 (10.5-ounce) can.

For the Topping:

Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups (divided).
Frozen Tater Tots: 1 (30-ounce) bag.
Salt and Pepper: To taste.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the casserole bakes evenly and the tater tots get beautifully crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Break up the beef with a spoon as it cooks, ensuring there are no large chunks. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 3: Combine the Filling Ingredients
Transfer the cooked beef mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add the drained mixed vegetables, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (if using), and cream of chicken soup. Stir well to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Spread the beef and vegetable mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish, creating a smooth layer. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture. This layer of cheese melts into the filling, adding extra creaminess.

Step 5: Add the Tater Tot Topping
Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single, even layer on top of the cheese. For best results, make sure the tots are placed close together without overlapping — this ensures a crispy, golden topping.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Add the Final Cheese Layer
Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Return the dish to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. The cheesy, creamy layers will set slightly, making it easier to scoop and serve. Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

Make-Ahead Tips: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Add the tater tots just before baking to ensure they stay crispy.
Freezer-Friendly: This casserole freezes well. Prepare it without baking, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.