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Tater tot casserole with ground beef fresh from the oven

Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

This classic tater tot casserole with ground beef is the ultimate comfort food, creamy, cheesy, and topped with golden crispy tots. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, picky eaters, or casual potlucks. Made with simple pantry staples, it comes together in one pan and bakes into a rich, satisfying family favorite.
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Course: Casserole, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Resting time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Calories: 480kcal
Author: Chloe White
Cost: $11

Equipment

  • 1 9x13-inch baking dish Glass or ceramic preferred
  • 1 Large skillet For browning beef
  • 1 Mixing spoon/spatula

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Ground beef 80/20 recommended
  • 1 can Cream of mushroom soup or cream of chicken
  • 1/2 cup Milk Whole or 2%
  • 2 cups Frozen mixed vegetables Optional
  • 1 ½ cups Shredded cheddar cheese Sharp cheddar recommended
  • 1 bag Frozen tater tots Use straight from freezer
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder Optional seasoning
  • 1 tsp Onion powder Optional seasoning
  • To taste Salt and black pepper Adjust to preference

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Brown the ground beef.
  • In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain excess grease.
  • Add seasoning and mix filling.
  • Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add cream of mushroom soup and milk. Mix until smooth.
  • Add vegetables (optional).
  • Stir in frozen vegetables if using.
  • Assemble the casserole.
  • Spread the beef mixture evenly into the baking dish. Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
  • Top with tater tots.
  • Arrange tater tots in a single layer over the filling.
  • Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes.
  • Bake until the tater tots are golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
  • Cool and serve.
  • Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Freezer Option: Freeze unbaked casserole wrapped tightly. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 60–70 minutes.
Swap Ideas: Use ground turkey, lentils, or chicken to change up the base.
For extra crisp: Broil the casserole for 2–3 minutes after baking.

Nutrition

Calories: 480kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 21g | Fat: 31g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Cholesterol: 80mg | Sodium: 780mg | Vitamin A: 500IU | Calcium: 210mg