Tater tot casserole features a creamy base of seasoned ground beef, onions, and a rich blend of cream soups, enhanced with melted cheddar cheese and optional veggies for a burst of flavor. Crowned with a blanket of perfectly crisp tater tots, each bite offers a satisfying mix of creamy, crunchy, and cheesy textures. It is the ideal meal for casual gatherings or even family dinners.
What sets this casserole apart is the crown of golden, crispy tater tots baked to perfection on top. They add a delightful crunch that complements the creamy filling beneath, making every bite a harmonious balance of textures and flavors. Whether served as a main course at a family dinner or a star dish at potlucks, Tater Tot Casserole never fails to deliver comfort and nostalgia.
Pair it with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal, and garnish with parsley or green onions for a pop of color. Tater tot casserole is the kind of dish that brings people together.
In the following section, I’ll be guiding you with my step-by-step guide on how to make the best Tater tot casserole with my simple recipe.
The Best Tater Tot Casserole Recipe
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking dish
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey for a lighter option
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 10.5 oz condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can 10.5 oz condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese plus extra for topping, if desired
- 1 package 32 oz frozen tater tots
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish
- Chopped parsley or green onions
Instructions
Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the ground beef:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
Mix the base:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and shredded cheese. Stir until well mixed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the casserole:
- Spread the meat mixture evenly across the bottom of the 9x13-inch baking dish. If using frozen peas and carrots, layer them over the meat mixture. Arrange the tater tots in a single layer on top.
Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
Add cheese (optional):
- If you love extra cheese, sprinkle additional shredded cheddar over the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions, if desired.
