Easy Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Tater Tot Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish made with just a few simple ingredients. It’s creamy, savory, and topped with crispy golden tater tots, making it a family favorite for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this classic casserole delivers on taste and convenience.

ingredients

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

ground beefonion (diced)garlic (minced)cream of mushroom soupmilkfrozen mixed vegetablesshredded cheddar cheesefrozen tater totssaltpepper

directions

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

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.

Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet, cooking until softened.

Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and frozen mixed vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

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

Arrange the 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 and crispy.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 35-40 minutesCooling time: 5 minutesTotal time: 50-55 minutes

Variations

Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Use cream of chicken or celery soup instead of mushroom.

Add bacon bits for an extra savory kick.

Mix in hot sauce or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.

Use different shredded cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or Colby.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.For longer storage, freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Do I need to thaw the tater tots first?

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

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Yes, just make sure to lightly cook them before mixing into the casserole.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, just use a larger baking dish or divide into two pans.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the meat with cooked lentils or a plant-based meat alternative.

Will this work in a slow cooker?

Yes, assemble everything except the tater tots, cook on low for 4-6 hours, then top with tots and broil in the oven to crisp.

Can I use a different soup?

Cream of chicken or cheddar cheese soup are popular alternatives.

Can I add seasonings?

Absolutely—try garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.

Is this kid-friendly?

Very—kids love the cheesy, crispy tater tot topping.

What can I serve with this?

A green salad or steamed vegetables make great side dishes.

Conclusion

Easy Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate comfort food with layers of flavor and texture. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping meals for the week, this dish comes together quickly and satisfies every time. Give it a try and see why it’s a timeless favorite across generations.

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