Name: Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp paprika; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 bag (28 oz) frozen tater tots; Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish

When comfort food calls, Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef answers loud and clear. This casserole is a golden, cheesy, and ultra-satisfying meal that’s always a hit with families. It brings together crispy tater tots, savory seasoned beef, and melty cheese in one hearty dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a cozy night in.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this one-dish wonder is equal parts delicious and convenient. You can customize it with vegetables, spice it up, or keep it classic. Either way, you’ll have an irresistible dish with minimal cleanup.

What Kind of Tater Tots Should I Use?

For this casserole, regular frozen tater tots work beautifully. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand; just layer them frozen over the beef and cheese. You can opt for extra-crispy varieties or even seasoned ones for an added flavor boost. If you’re feeling adventurous, try sweet potato tots for a fun twist!

Ingredients for the Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp paprika
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 (28 oz) bag frozen tater tots
Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish

Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef (1)

How To Make the Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion and garlic until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain excess fat.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

Add cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, salt, pepper, and paprika to the skillet. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Layer the frozen tater tots evenly over the cheese. Finish with the remaining shredded cheese.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and sprinkle with parsley or green onions. Serve hot!

Serving and Storing This Comforting Casserole

Serve this tater tot casserole straight from the oven for maximum crunch and gooey goodness. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal.

Leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or microwave single servings.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make it creamier?

Add an extra ¼ cup of sour cream or a splash of milk to the beef mixture before baking.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work well and make it a bit lighter.

What vegetables can I add?

Try frozen peas, corn, green beans, or even chopped spinach. Mix them into the beef layer.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes! Assemble it up to 24 hours ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Do the tater tots stay crispy?

They do, especially if you bake uncovered and avoid overcrowding them.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, but the texture may soften slightly upon reheating. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you love this hearty tater tot casserole, you’ll want to check out these other irresistible dishes:

Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts for rich, skillet-cooked comfort.
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole with Cream Cheese that’s creamy and nostalgic.
One Pan Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta for a unique twist on classic flavors.
Shipwreck Dinner when you want a one-pan throw-together delight.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole for creamy, cheesy layers that feel extra indulgent.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you’ll always have it ready for weeknight cravings.

Let me know in the comments—did you stick with classic beef or switch it up? Add veggies or go extra cheesy?

I love seeing how you make these recipes your own. Questions and tips are always welcome—let’s cook smarter, not harder!

More cozy recipes shared daily over on Pinterest @NinaDishes.

Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort dish—savory, cheesy, crispy, and ridiculously easy. It combines golden tater tots, seasoned ground beef, and gooey melted cheddar in a single baking dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prepping with minimal cleanup.