If you’re craving that perfect blend of comfort and simplicity, this Cheesy Ground Beef Tater Tot Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need to add to your dinner rotation. It’s a heartwarming dish where juicy, savory ground beef mingles effortlessly with creamy, tangy layers, all crowned by golden, crispy tater tots and gooey melted cheddar cheese. Every bite is a delicious mix of textures and flavors that feels like a big, cozy hug for your taste buds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully to create a rich and satisfying casserole. Each component is essential, contributing to the dish’s creamy, beefy, and crispy qualities that make it truly irresistible.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty foundation of the dish, packed with savory flavor and protein.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when cooked with the beef.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a gentle kick and aromatic boost.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and balance.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Creates a creamy, rich base to bind everything together.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Brings tanginess and smooth texture to the beef mixture.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: For that essential ooey-gooey cheesy goodness on top and inside.
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots: The crispy, golden topping that makes this casserole so iconic.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch and a pop of color.
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Tater Tot Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by setting your oven to 375°F and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This prep ensures your casserole bakes evenly and doesn’t stick, setting the stage for the magic that’s about to happen.
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Onions
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the diced onion until the beef is no longer pink and the onions have softened and become translucent, roughly 6 to 8 minutes. This step builds the deep, savory base flavors essential for an unforgettable casserole.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasoning
Drain off excess fat from the skillet, then stir in the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute, allowing the garlic to soften and release its fragrance, enhancing the dish’s overall aroma and taste.
Step 4: Mix in Creamy Ingredients and Cheese
Remove the skillet from heat, then fold in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. This creamy blend will coat the beef and onions perfectly, melding all the elements together in a rich, velvety sauce.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the beef mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish for an even layer of hearty goodness. Next, arrange the frozen tater tots in a single, neat layer on top, creating that signature crispy topping everyone loves.
Step 6: Top with Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the tater tots for an irresistible golden crust. Bake the casserole for 35 to 40 minutes until the tater tots turn beautifully golden and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned.
Step 7: Rest and Garnish
Once out of the oven, let your Cheesy Ground Beef Tater Tot Casserole Recipe rest for about 5 minutes to set up. If you like, garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color and an extra touch of flavor before serving.
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Tater Tot Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that balances the rich, savory flavors. For a little extra zing, a sprinkling of green onions or a dollop of sour cream on the side works beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad, steamed green beans, or roasted vegetables brings a light contrast and rounds out the dinner plate perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this casserole in individual ramekins for charming personal portions. You can also scoop it onto dinner plates and drizzle with hot sauce or ranch dressing to cater to your loved ones’ different flavor preferences.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Cheesy Ground Beef Tater Tot Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cover it well to keep the tater tots from getting soggy and maintain that cheesy goodness.
Freezing
This casserole freezes exceptionally well. Assemble it but don’t bake, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 15–20 minutes to maintain the crispy texture of the tots and melted cheese. Microwaving works too but can result in a softer topping, so the oven is preferred for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While cheddar gives that classic flavor and melty texture, you can mix in mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of pepper jack for extra kick. Just make sure it melts well for that cohesive cheesy top.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap out the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils for a meat-free version. Just keep the rest of the ingredients the same to maintain the creamy, cheesy texture that makes this recipe so comforting.
How can I make the tater tots extra crispy?
For crispier tots, try broiling the casserole for the last 2 to 3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye to avoid burning, but this step gives the topping a gorgeous, crunchy finish.
Can I add vegetables to make it healthier?
Definitely! Frozen mixed vegetables, green beans, or even chopped bell peppers work well stirred into the beef mixture. They add color, nutrients, and an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
How long does this casserole take to make from start to finish?
From prepping to baking, this Cheesy Ground Beef Tater Tot Casserole Recipe takes about 55 minutes total, including 15 minutes to prep and 40 minutes to bake. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but special enough for company.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Ground Beef Tater Tot Casserole Recipe is a total game changer when you want hearty comfort food without fuss. It’s that perfect mix of creamy, cheesy, meaty, and crispy that satisfies every craving. I promise once you try it, this casserole will become one of your go-to dishes for busy nights or family dinners. Give it a shot and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Cheesy Ground Beef Tater Tot Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cheesy Ground Beef Tater Tot Casserole is a hearty and comforting American main course featuring browned ground beef cooked with onions, garlic, and creamy mushroom soup, layered under a crispy blanket of golden tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for an easy family dinner, this casserole bakes to bubbly, cheesy perfection and can be garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
Topping
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (remaining)
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Cook Ground Beef and Onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is tender, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat to reduce greasiness.
- Add Seasonings and Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant, then remove the skillet from heat.
- Combine with Soup, Sour Cream, and Cheese: Mix in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese thoroughly until evenly blended.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Arrange the frozen tater tots tightly in a single layer over the beef mixture.
- Add Cheese Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tater tots. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, until the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Garnish: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving to set. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired for added color and freshness.
Notes
- For extra nutrition, add frozen mixed vegetables or green beans to the beef mixture before assembling.
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup to vary the flavor.
- To achieve a crispier top, broil the casserole for the last 2–3 minutes of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
