Tater Tot Casserole is the comfort food staple you need for those busy nights when simplicity and heartiness are key. This dish is a great option for feeding a crowd with minimal cooking fuss, providing warmth and satisfaction with every bite.
- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Minimal prep makes it ideal for weeknight dinners.
- Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.
- Kid-friendly with a crispy, cheesy topping.
- Flexible for substitutions or additions as needed.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides the hearty, savory base. Swap with ground turkey for a lighter option.
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup: Adds creaminess and depth. Substitute with cream of chicken for a different flavor profile.
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.
- 1 (16 ounce) package frozen tater tots: The star of the dish, offering a crispy topping. No substitute needed here.
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese: Melted to perfection for richness. Monterey Jack can be used for a milder taste.
How to Make It
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s fully browned and no pink remains. Break it into small pieces while cooking for even browning. Drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy casserole.
Step 2: Mix with Soup
Add the condensed cream of mushroom soup to the browned beef. Stir well to ensure the beef is evenly coated. This mixture is the creamy binder that will hold the casserole together, so thorough mixing is key.
Step 3: Season and Layer
Season the beef and soup mixture with salt and pepper to taste, then spread it evenly into a greased baking dish. This even layer ensures that every bite has a good mix of flavors.
Step 4: Add Tater Tots
Arrange the tater tots in a single layer on top of the beef mixture. They should be placed evenly for consistent crispness during baking. This creates the characteristic crunchy top layer.
Step 5: Top with Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese over the tater tots. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes or until the tots are golden brown and the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
Recipe FAQs
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This can help flavors meld beautifully, making prep even easier.
What can I add to customize this dish?
You can add vegetables like peas or green beans for added nutrition or spice it up with chopped jalapeños. It’s a flexible dish, so feel free to adjust to your taste preferences.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy texture of the tater tots.
