Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef and Rotel is the ultimate comfort food dish, combining crispy tater tots, savory ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and the bold, zesty flavor of Rotel tomatoes. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy family dinners. Each bite delivers creamy, cheesy goodness with just the right kick of spice.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beefoniongarlicRotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies)cream of mushroom soupshredded cheddar cheesefrozen tater totssaltpepperolive oil

directions

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

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent.

Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.

Stir in minced garlic, Rotel, and cream of mushroom soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cook the mixture for a few minutes until well combined and heated through.

Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.

Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.

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

Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 6 people.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 40 minutesTotal time: 55 minutes

Variations

Use spicy Rotel for an extra kick.

Add a layer of chopped jalapeños for more heat.

Swap cheddar for a Mexican blend cheese for a different flavor profile.

Mix in cooked corn or black beans for added texture and nutrition.

Top with sour cream or green onions just before serving.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

Is it okay to use a different soup?

Yes, cream of chicken or cream of cheddar soup works well too.

Do I need to thaw the tater tots?

No, use them straight from the freezer for the best texture.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely, ground turkey is a great lighter option.

What kind of cheese is best?

Sharp cheddar gives the most flavor, but any melting cheese will work.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, peas, corn, or bell peppers are good additions.

Why is my casserole watery?

Drain the beef thoroughly and don’t use too much Rotel juice to avoid excess moisture.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, just use a larger baking dish and extend the baking time slightly.

What’s the best way to make it crispier?

Bake uncovered and broil for 2-3 minutes at the end if needed.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s a hit with kids thanks to the crispy tots and cheesy flavor.

Conclusion

Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef and Rotel is a fuss-free, flavor-packed meal that brings together all the elements of comfort food in one dish. It’s warm, cheesy, and satisfying—perfect for when you need something hearty and delicious on the table fast. Once you try it, it might just become a regular in your dinner rotation.