Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe

Recipe By:
Lily Hartwell

 

Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

The aroma of a bubbling casserole fresh from the oven is enough to make anyone weak at the knees. Now, imagine that scent mingling with the crispy crunch of golden tater tots and the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef. You can practically hear your taste buds cheering for joy. Yes, I’m talking about the beloved tater tot casserole with ground beef, a dish that has become a family favorite in my house!

This delightful casserole isn’t just about filling your belly; it’s about warming your heart and creating memories around the dinner table. Picture this: a chilly evening where everyone gathers around to dig into a comforting dish that tastes like home. This is the kind of meal that makes you feel grateful for family and friends—and maybe even prompts you to do a little happy dance in your kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This tater tot casserole is ridiculously easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • The combination of savory flavors creates a mouthwatering experience everyone will love.
  • Its golden, crispy topping adds visual appeal that’s hard to resist.
  • Plus, this dish is versatile enough to adapt based on what you have on hand!

Every time I make this dish, my family erupts in cheers like they’re at a rock concert. My kids have even tried to convince me to serve it for breakfast—because who wouldn’t want cheesy goodness at 8 AM?

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

  • Ground Beef: I usually use lean ground beef for less grease but opt for whatever you prefer!
  • Tater Tots: Frozen tots work best; they provide that perfect crunch when baked.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for an extra kick of flavor.
  • Canned Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess without requiring extra effort; choose low sodium if preferred.
  • Frozen Mixed Vegetables: A blend of carrots, peas, and corn brightens up the dish while sneaking in some nutrition.
  • Onion Powder and Garlic Powder: These staples add depth and great flavor—don’t skimp on them!
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to bring all those wonderful flavors together.
  • Milk: Just a splash helps smooth out the soup mixture for better texture.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat and Prepare

First things first—preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and spray it lightly with nonstick cooking spray so nothing sticks when it’s time to serve.

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown about one pound of ground beef until it’s no longer pink. As it cooks, break it apart with a spatula. Let those glorious meaty aromas fill your kitchen.

Combine Ingredients

Once browned, remove from heat and drain excess fat if necessary. Stir in one can of cream of mushroom soup along with half a cup of milk until well combined. Add in one cup of frozen mixed vegetables and season generously with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Assemble the Casserole

Spoon your savory meat mixture into the prepared baking dish evenly. Now comes the fun part—top it all off with an even layer of frozen tater tots arranged neatly like little soldiers standing at attention.

Add Cheese

Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar cheese over those glorious tots because let’s be honest; cheese makes everything better!

Bake Away

Pop that beauty into your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Keep an eye out—the aroma wafting through your house will be irresistible!

Serve & Enjoy

Once baked to perfection, let it cool slightly before digging in. Serve warm and watch as smiles spread across faces—it’s like magic!

Now you’ve made an unforgettable tater tot casserole with ground beef that will surely become a staple in your home! Your family will be asking for seconds (or thirds), so get ready for some happy dinner table moments!

You Must Know

  • Tater tot casserole with ground beef is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up.
  • The crispy tots contrast beautifully with the savory ground beef, creating a dish that’s not just filling but also full of flavor.
  • Plus, it’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef first, then mix in your onions and spices before layering it with tater tots. This sequence ensures everything cooks evenly and flavors meld beautifully.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the ground beef for turkey or add veggies like bell peppers or corn. Spice it up with your favorite seasonings or cheese for extra richness.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover tater tot casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for the best texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Use fresh ingredients for a brighter flavor; wilted veggies can dull your dish.
  • Brown your beef thoroughly to enhance its taste; no one likes bland meat.
  • Don’t skimp on cheese—extra cheese brings everyone to the table and makes this dish irresistible.

Sometimes I wonder if my family thinks I’m a kitchen magician when I whip up this casserole. They devour it within minutes, asking for seconds before they even finish their first plates!

FAQs

FAQ

What can I substitute for ground beef in this casserole?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even lentils for a vegetarian option.

How long should I bake the tater tot casserole?

Bake the casserole at 400°F for about 30-35 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

Can I freeze leftover tater tot casserole?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers in a sealed container for up to three months without losing quality.

Print
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Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

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4.8 from 124 reviews

Savor the ultimate comfort food with this Tater Tot Casserole, featuring a savory blend of ground beef and crispy tater tots—perfect for family dinners!

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 8

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 32 oz frozen tater tots
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink; drain excess fat.
  3. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and milk until well combined. Add frozen mixed vegetables, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish and layer with frozen tater tots on top.
  5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots.
  6. Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
  •  Add bell peppers or swap out veggies based on your preference to customize the dish.
  • Author: Sophie
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 220g)
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 740mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 16g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

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