If you're looking for a comforting, hearty meal that's simple to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd, look no further! This Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food that combines juicy ground beef, crispy tater tots, and a creamy sauce—all baked to golden perfection. Read on to discover how you can whip up this delicious dish that your entire family will love. You won't want to miss a step, so stay tuned till the very end for extra tips, serving suggestions, and frequently asked questions!

What Is Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef?
Tater Tot Casserole is a beloved, family-friendly dish that layers flavorful ground beef with creamy soup, gooey cheese, and crispy tater tots. This classic comfort food is popular in many households for its simplicity and the use of pantry staples, making it a quick and easy weeknight meal. The dish offers versatility—customizable ingredients and endless variations make it suitable for nearly any taste preference.
Ingredients List for Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef
Before you start cooking, gather these essential ingredients. Each component plays a key role in making this casserole tasty, creamy, and satisfying:
- 1 lb of ground beef – Lean ground beef works best, but you can use regular ground beef as well.
- 1 medium onion, diced – Adds a bit of sweetness and depth to the dish.
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced – For extra flavor.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup – The base for the creamy layer.
- 1 cup of sour cream – Provides tang and creaminess.
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese – Melted cheese adds rich flavor.
- 1 package (32 oz) of frozen tater tots – The star of the dish, offering a crispy, golden top layer.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – For seasoning the beef mixture.
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil – To sauté the onion and garlic.
Ingredients List for Optional Add-Ons and Variations
If you’d like to elevate your Tater Tot Casserole with some added flavors and textures, consider incorporating these optional ingredients:
- 1 can of green beans or corn (drained) – Adds a vegetable element to the dish.
- ½ cup of bacon bits – For a smoky flavor.
- ½ teaspoon of paprika – To give the casserole a subtle, smoky kick.
- ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper – If you like a bit of spice.
- ½ cup of French-fried onions – Adds a crispy, oniony crunch on top.
- ¼ cup of chopped parsley – For garnishing the finished casserole.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is its adaptability. Below are a few substitutions and variations you can try based on your preferences or dietary needs:
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef if you're looking for a leaner option.
- Use different canned soups like cream of chicken, cream of celery, or cheddar cheese soup for a unique flavor twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with a meatless crumble or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Gluten-Free: Choose a gluten-free cream soup, as some canned soups contain gluten.
- Dairy-Free: Swap out the sour cream and cheese for dairy-free alternatives.
You can also make this casserole your own by adjusting the level of spice, adding in your favorite veggies, or using a different type of cheese!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you've gathered your ingredients, it's time to start cooking! Follow these simple steps to make the perfect Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is preheating, you can begin preparing the other ingredients.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Then, add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season the beef with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Drain Excess Fat
Once the ground beef is fully cooked, carefully drain any excess fat from the skillet. This step helps prevent your casserole from becoming greasy.
Step 4: Mix in Cream of Mushroom Soup and Sour Cream
After draining the beef, stir in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream until everything is well combined. This will create the creamy base for your casserole.
Step 5: Layer the Casserole
In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom. If you're adding vegetables like corn or green beans, layer them on top of the beef mixture. Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the meat and vegetables.
Step 6: Add Tater Tots
Arrange the tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese and meat mixture. You can either place them neatly in rows or scatter them evenly across the dish—it's up to you!
Step 7: Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy. The cheese should be fully melted, and the casserole should be bubbling around the edges.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or French-fried onions if desired, then serve!
How to Cook Tater Tot Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here's a quick overview of the steps to follow when cooking your Tater Tot Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Brown the ground beef with onions and garlic.
- Stir in cream of mushroom soup and sour cream for a creamy consistency.
- Layer the casserole in a baking dish with beef, vegetables, cheese, and tater tots.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until crispy and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve hot!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the ground beef: Make sure to cook the ground beef just until browned. Overcooking it can make the beef dry.
- Skipping the fat draining step: If you don't drain the fat from the cooked beef, the casserole can turn out greasy.
- Not spacing out the tater tots properly: For an even, crispy topping, ensure the tater tots are arranged in a single layer.
- Forgetting to season: Don't forget to season your beef mixture with salt and pepper. It adds depth and balance to the overall flavor.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation is key, even for a humble dish like Tater Tot Casserole. Here are some ways to elevate the look and taste of your dish:
- Serve it hot: Tater Tot Casserole is best enjoyed right out of the oven, while the tater tots are still crispy.
- Garnish for color: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives adds a pop of color.
- Use a large spoon to serve: This allows you to scoop deep into the casserole, capturing all the layers in one serving.
How to Serve Tater Tot Casserole
This casserole pairs well with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables. If you’re hosting a casual dinner, serve it straight from the baking dish for a rustic, homey feel. For a more formal presentation, plate individual servings with a side of fresh greens and a drizzle of ranch dressing.
Presentation Ideas for Tater Tot Casserole
- Serve in mini ramekins: For individual portions, bake the casserole in mini ramekins. This is especially fun for dinner parties.
- Layer it in a clear dish: A glass baking dish allows guests to see the distinct layers, adding visual interest to the table.
- Top with extras: Sprinkle French-fried onions, extra cheese, or bacon bits on top for added texture and flavor.
Tater Tot Casserole Recipe Tips
- For a crispier top, bake the casserole uncovered for the full 40 minutes. If the top isn't as golden as you'd like, broil it for the last 2-3 minutes.
- Make it ahead of time: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.
- Double the recipe: This dish is perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd. Simply double the ingredients and bake in a larger dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I freeze Tater Tot Casserole?
Yes! You can freeze it before baking. Cover it tightly with foil, and it will last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as instructed.
2. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh veggies like green beans or corn can be steamed or blanched before adding to the casserole.
3. How do I make this casserole spicier?
To add some heat, mix in cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños with the ground beef.
4. Can I use sweet potato tots instead of regular tater tots?
Yes, sweet potato tots work great and add a unique flavor to the casserole.
5. What should I serve with Tater Tot Casserole?
It pairs well with a light green salad, roasted vegetables, or even garlic bread for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is the perfect comfort food to satisfy your cravings and bring a smile to everyone at the dinner table. With its easy preparation, customizable options, and delicious taste, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Whether you're making it for a weeknight meal or bringing it to a potluck, this dish will never disappoint. Try it today, and don't forget to make it your own with some fun add-ons and variations!
PrintTater Tot Casserole With Ground Beef Recipe
This tater tot casserole with ground beef is a delicious comfort food loaded with savory ground beef, crispy tater tots, and gooey melted cheese. With simple ingredients and easy instructions, it's perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Enjoy this classic casserole baked to perfection with minimal prep time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 bag frozen tater tots
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef with chopped onion. Drain excess fat.
- Mix the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and salt and pepper in a bowl.
- Layer the beef mixture in a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Pour the soup mixture evenly over the beef.
- Arrange the tater tots on top, then sprinkle shredded cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden. Serve hot.
Notes
- You can add vegetables like green beans or corn to the beef layer for added nutrition.
- Substitute cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom for a different flavor.
- Customize the cheese type according to your preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 850mg
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