If you're looking for a comfort food dish that's perfect for family dinners, look no further than this delicious Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef. With its crispy tater tot topping, flavorful ground beef, and creamy sauce, this meal is sure to please everyone at the table. Not only is it incredibly satisfying, but it's also easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. Keep reading to learn how to whip up this savory casserole, complete with tips for customization, serving ideas, and common mistakes to avoid.
What is Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef?
Tater Tot Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that combines ground beef, a creamy mushroom sauce, and a crispy tater tot topping. The ingredients meld together during baking to create a savory and hearty meal that’s both filling and flavorful. The addition of shredded cheddar cheese and optional vegetables like peas or green beans makes this dish not only delicious but also packed with texture. It’s the kind of recipe you can tweak to your liking, making it a versatile option for any weeknight dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients List for Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef
Before you get started, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand. These are the basic components that make up the heart of the casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef: The main protein of the dish, providing a rich and savory flavor.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds a layer of sweetness and depth to the meat mixture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: For a robust flavor that complements the beef.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: The creamy base that holds the casserole together.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds creaminess and tang to balance the savory elements.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: For that gooey, cheesy goodness.
- 1 package (32 oz) frozen tater tots: The star of the show, providing a crispy topping.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Basic seasonings to enhance the flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the onion and garlic.
- Optional: 1 cup frozen peas or green beans: For added texture and a pop of color.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the great things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some easy substitutions and variations to consider:
- Ground turkey or chicken: If you want to make a leaner version, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
- Vegetarian option: Skip the meat entirely and substitute with cooked lentils or a meatless ground beef alternative.
- Different cheese options: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, you can also use Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a little kick.
- Add more vegetables: Consider adding bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to bulk up the nutritional value.
- Cream of chicken or celery soup: If you're not a fan of mushrooms, you can easily swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken or cream of celery.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Ready to make this tasty dish? Follow these simple steps:

- Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when you are.
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once browned, drain any excess fat.
- Mix the creamy base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. Stir in the cooked ground beef mixture and, if using, add the frozen peas or green beans.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the beef and cream mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, and then top it with an even layer of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Add the tater tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the casserole. You can place them in neat rows or scatter them more casually, depending on your preference.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
How to Cook Tater Tot Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking this Tater Tot Casserole is straightforward, but here’s a breakdown of each stage to ensure success:
- Step 1: Sautéing Aromatics
Starting with the onion and garlic builds a flavor base. Make sure the onion turns translucent but not too browned, and be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. - Step 2: Browning the Beef
Be patient when browning the beef. Allow it to get a nice sear for added depth of flavor. Draining the fat is crucial to avoid a greasy casserole. - Step 3: Combining the Creamy Ingredients
Mixing the soup, sour cream, and beef ensures that every bite will be rich and flavorful. Be sure to stir well to evenly distribute the ingredients. - Step 4: Arranging the Tater Tots
Proper placement of the tater tots is key to achieving that perfect crispy topping. Ensure they are spread evenly so that every bite has a nice crunch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the tater tots: Be sure to watch the casserole during the last few minutes of baking to prevent the tater tots from becoming too hard.
- Not draining the beef: Failing to drain excess fat from the ground beef can result in a greasy casserole.
- Skipping the cheese layer: The shredded cheese acts as a barrier between the creamy filling and the crispy tater tots. Don’t forget it!
- Crowding the tater tots: Overlapping tater tots can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure they are placed in a single layer for maximum crispiness.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Serving and presenting your casserole can be just as important as cooking it. Here are some ideas:
- How to Serve Tater Tot Casserole
This dish is best served hot out of the oven. Pair it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. If you're hosting, consider serving it in the same dish it was baked in for easy cleanup and a rustic presentation. - Presentation Ideas for Tater Tot Casserole
For a fun twist, arrange the tater tots in patterns like spirals or concentric circles before baking. You could also sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top after baking for a pop of color and freshness.
Tater Tot Casserole Recipe Tips
- Make ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven as directed.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Simply wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Crispier tater tots: For an extra-crispy topping, consider baking the tater tots separately for about 10 minutes before adding them to the casserole.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just follow the baking instructions when you’re ready to cook.
Can I freeze Tater Tot Casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, bake it straight from the freezer at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you don’t have sour cream, you can use plain Greek yogurt as a substitute. It will still give you the tangy, creamy texture you need.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Yes, feel free to add more vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or corn. Just make sure they are cooked or frozen so they don’t add too much moisture to the dish.
Conclusion
Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is a crowd-pleasing, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any family meal. With its combination of crispy tater tots, flavorful beef, and a creamy, cheesy filling, it’s sure to become a regular on your dinner menu. Plus, with the versatility to customize the recipe to your liking, this casserole will never get old. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or serving it at a potluck, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a comforting meal that hits all the right notes!
PrintTater Tot Casserole With Ground Beef Recipe
Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is a comforting dish featuring crispy tater tots, seasoned ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and cheddar cheese. Optional veggies like peas or green beans add extra nutrition to this satisfying family meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 package (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: 1 cup frozen peas or green beans
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet, add chopped onion, and sauté until softened.
- Add garlic and ground beef. Cook until browned, season with salt and pepper, then drain excess fat.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. Add peas or green beans if using.
- Transfer mixture to a baking dish, top with cheddar cheese, and layer frozen tater tots evenly on top.
- Bake in preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until tater tots are golden and crispy.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute cream of chicken soup if you prefer a different flavor.
- For added crunch, top with fried onions or extra cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
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