Name: Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; ½ cup milk; Salt and pepper to taste

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The aroma of a bubbling tater tot casserole with ground beef wafts through the air, instantly transporting you to cozy family gatherings and Saturday night potlucks. The crispy potato tots on top give way to a savory mixture of seasoned beef and melted cheese, creating an irresistible dish that warms the heart (and stomach).

your family walks through the door after a long day, and they’re greeted by the enticing scent of your latest culinary masterpiece. You can practically hear their stomachs growling in unison as they eagerly gather around the table, ready to dig into this delightful comfort food.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This satisfying tater tot casserole is incredibly easy to prepare and will quickly become a weeknight favorite
Its creamy texture combined with crispy toppings creates a flavor explosion that pleases everyone at the table
The vibrant colors and cheesy goodness make it visually appealing for any gathering
Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers throughout the week

I still remember the first time I made this dish; my friends couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: I prefer using lean ground beef to keep it flavorful without too much grease.
Tater Tots: Frozen tater tots work best—easy and perfectly crispy when baked.
Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for an extra punch of flavor that melts beautifully.
Onion: Diced onion adds sweetness; choose yellow or white for best results.
Garlic Powder: This seasoning enhances the flavor profile—don’t skip it!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Creamy goodness binds everything together; use low-fat if desired.
Milk: A splash of milk helps create a creamy sauce without being too heavy.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures an evenly cooked casserole.

Cook Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Sauté Onions: Add diced onions to the skillet with the beef. Cook until they are translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooked beef mixture with cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.

Layer Casserole: In a greased baking dish, spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom. Top generously with frozen tater tots.

Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the tater tots. Feel free to add more if you want extra cheesiness!

Bake Until Golden: Place in your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye on it towards the end!

Serve & Enjoy: Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving. Scoop out portions and watch everyone dig in!

This delightful tater tot casserole with ground beef is not just food; it’s nostalgia served hot! Whether it’s game night or just another Tuesday evening at home, this dish brings everyone together deliciously. So roll up your sleeves and get ready for some serious comfort food magic!

You Must Know

Tater tot casserole with ground beef is a hearty dish that combines crispy tots and savory beef
This one-pan wonder not only saves time but also makes cleanup a breeze
It’s perfect for busy weeknights and guaranteed to be a family favorite

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning your ground beef with onions and garlic before layering. This ensures the flavors meld beautifully in the oven.

Add Your Touch

Try adding veggies like bell peppers or corn for extra color and nutrients. You can also swap out cheeses for different flavors.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to keep those tots crispy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For the best tater tot casserole with ground beef, ensure your beef is well-seasoned
Add extra cheese on top for a gooey finish
Don’t forget to check the tots halfway through cooking to avoid over-browning!

When I first made this dish, my friends couldn’t believe how quickly it disappeared at dinner! It’s always a hit at gatherings, bringing everyone together over comfort food.

FAQ

Can I use frozen vegetables in my tater tot casserole with ground beef?

Absolutely! Frozen veggies work great and save you prep time while adding nutrition.

How do I make my tater tot casserole with ground beef spicy?

Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to kick up the heat!

What’s a good side dish to serve with this casserole?

A simple green salad pairs perfectly, balancing the richness of the casserole.