why make this recipe
Tater Tot Casserole is quick, warm, and easy. It uses simple grocery items and fills the family. If you like one-pan meals and comfort food, this dish works well. For another easy breakfast-style option, try this Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole for a different twist.
introduction
This casserole mixes browned beef, cream soup, and tater tots. The tops get crispy and the inside stays soft. You can make it on a weeknight or for a casual meal. It needs little hands-on time and most people love it.
how to make Tater Tot Casserole
Follow simple steps and you will have a hearty meal. You can swap spices or add vegetables if you like. For a similar simple bake using eggs and hashbrowns, see this Bacon Egg and Hashbrown Casserole.
Ingredients :
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 bag frozen tater tots
- 1 small onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
- Spread the beef mixture in a casserole dish and top with a layer of tater tots.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the tater tots.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
- Serve warm and enjoy your comfort food!
how to serve Tater Tot Casserole
Serve hot from the oven. Cut into squares on a plate. Add a green salad or steamed vegetables on the side for balance. For more meal pairing ideas, look at this Baked Chicken and Stuffing Casserole to see how simple sides can match casseroles.
how to store Tater Tot Casserole
Cool to room temperature before storing. Cover the dish with foil or move pieces to an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for 3–4 days. To freeze, wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Tater Tot Casserole
- Cook and drain the beef well so the casserole is not watery.
- Use full thawed or frozen tater tots as you like; frozen gives more crisp.
- Add a cup of frozen mixed veggies to the beef mix for more color and nutrition.
- Let the casserole rest 5 minutes before serving so it sets and cuts clean.
variation (if any)
- Mix in 1/2 cup sour cream for creamier filling.
- Swap cream of mushroom for cream of chicken or celery.
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Add a layer of sliced green beans or corn for extra veggies.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other soups instead of cream of mushroom?
A: Yes. Cream of chicken or celery works fine. The flavor will change a bit.
Q: Do I need to thaw the tater tots?
A: No. You can bake them frozen. They will get crisp in the oven during baking.
Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or until hot. You can also microwave single servings.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Assemble in a baking dish, cover, and keep in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.
Conclusion
If you want a step-by-step demo, try this Tater Tot Casserole Recipe (with Video). For another take and extra tips, see The BEST Tater Tot Casserole – Mom On Timeout. For more variations and serving ideas, check Easy Tater Tot Casserole • Salt & Lavender.
Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef Use lean ground beef for better results.
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup Can substitute with cream of chicken or celery.
- 1 cup shredded cheese Cheddar or mozzarella works best.
- 1 bag frozen tater tots Frozen tater tots create a crispier texture.
- 1 small onion, chopped Adds flavor to the beef mixture.
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust seasoning according to preference.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
Assembly
- Spread the beef mixture in a casserole dish and top with a layer of tater tots.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the tater tots.
Baking
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
- Serve warm and enjoy your comfort food!
