Tater Tot Casserole

Crunchy, golden tater tots sit on a bed of savory seasoned beef, topped with a creamy, cheesy sauce that melts into every bite. If you’re looking for a kid-friendly, stick-to-your-ribs dinner, this is it!

There’s something downright magical about Tater Tot Casserole—crispy, cheesy, and packed with comfort in every bite. It’s easy, affordable, and always a family favorite, making it the perfect weeknight dinner when you need something quick and hearty. With layers of savory ground beef, creamy sauce, melted cheese, and those golden, crunchy tater tots, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Bonus? Even the pickiest eaters can’t resist it!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but adds great flavor!)
• 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken!)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 (28-ounce) bag frozen tater tots
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Supplies Needed

• Large skillet
• 9×13 baking dish
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Instructions

Brown the Beef
Preheat oven to 375°F. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Stir in the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, stirring well.

Make the Creamy Sauce
Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk. Let everything simmer for 2 minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheese.

Assemble the Casserole
Spread the beef mixture evenly in a greased 9×13 baking dish. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the top. Sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup shredded cheese.

Bake Until Golden
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the tater tots are golden and crispy.

Serve & Enjoy
Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes, then sprinkle with fresh parsley (if using) and serve warm!

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Freezing: Assemble the casserole (without baking), cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 50-55 minutes.

Recipe Tips & Tricks

Extra Crispy Tots: For ultra-crispy tater tots, bake them separately for 10 minutes before adding them to the casserole.
Add Veggies: Stir in 1 cup of frozen peas, corn, or green beans for an extra boost of flavor and texture.
Meat-Free Option: Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a vegetarian version.

Variations

BBQ Tater Tot Casserole: Mix 1/4 cup BBQ sauce into the beef mixture for a smoky, tangy twist.
Spicy Southwest Tater Tot Casserole: Add 1 teaspoon taco seasoning and use pepper jack cheese for a little kick.
Breakfast Tater Tot Casserole: Swap out the beef for cooked breakfast sausage and stir in scrambled eggs for a hearty morning meal.

FAQ

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
Tater tots work best for that crispy texture, but you can use diced, roasted potatoes as a substitute.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

How do I keep tater tots from getting soggy?
For extra crispy tots, arrange them in a single layer and avoid stirring after baking.

This Tater Tot Casserole is one of those no-fuss, feel-good meals that just makes life easier. Whether you’re feeding a house full of hungry kids or just craving some cheesy, crispy goodness, this dish is always a hit. So grab a plate and dig in—because seconds are pretty much guaranteed!

Disclosure: Y’all, this post may contain affiliate links. That means if you click and buy, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Keeps the cheese meltin’ and the tots crispin’—thank ya kindly!