Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef
A hearty and comforting casserole featuring crispy tater tots, savory ground beef, and a creamy layer of cheese and vegetables. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this dish combines classic flavors with minimal effort.
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Mixing bowls
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Spatula
- Knife and cutting board (for chopping ingredients)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- For the Casserole:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion diced
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for variety)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese divided
- 1 bag 32 oz frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas and carrots, thawed)
- 1 bag 32 oz frozen tater tots
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven : Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Cook the Ground Beef :
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Prepare the Filling :
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and the thawed mixed vegetables. Stir well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Casserole :
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in an even layer on top of the beef mixture.
- Bake the Casserole :
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Return to the oven for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
- Serve :
- Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a different protein option.
Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and tater tots for a gluten-free version.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and tater tots for a gluten-free version.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.