INTRODUCTION
Tater Tot Casserole is a warm, simple dish that works any day of the week. It uses ground beef, onions, cream of mushroom soup, cheese, and a top layer of tater tots. You can make it in one baking dish. Kids and adults both like it. It cooks in about an hour from start to finish. If you like easy comfort food, this is a good choice. For another easy potato and beef bake idea, see this crockpot hamburger potato casserole recipe that uses a slow cooker.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love this recipe because it is quick and filling. It uses ingredients you likely have on hand. The dish is creamy, cheesy, and crisp on top. The tater tots make a golden top that kids enjoy. You can change the cheese or add vegetables to fit your taste. It is a one-dish meal, so cleanup is easy. You can make it ahead and reheat it. The flavors are simple and familiar. You can feed a small crowd without a lot of work. If you like casseroles that feel like home, this one will not let you down. For another slow cooker take on beef and potatoes, check this slow cooker hamburger potato casserole idea.
HOW TO MAKE Tater Tot Casserole
This section shows the main steps you follow. Start by browning the beef and onion. Mix the soup in until the meat is coated. Layer the meat, cheese, and tater tots in a greased dish. Bake until the top is brown and the inside is hot. The steps below give clear, small tasks you can follow. If you want to change texture, try different cheeses or add a layer of cut vegetables. For more ideas that warm the family, see this crockpot hamburger potato casserole page.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
Ingredients You’ll Need :
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
1 bag frozen tater tots
Salt and pepper to taste
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and combine well.
- In a greased baking dish, layer the beef mixture at the bottom.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the beef mixture.
- Top with a layer of frozen tater tots evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the tater tots are golden brown.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
HOW TO SERVE Tater Tot Casserole
Serve this casserole hot from the oven. Let it rest for five minutes before you cut it. Use a spatula to lift squares onto plates. A side of cooked green beans or a simple salad makes a nice balance. Plain bread or rolls work too. For kids, add ketchup or a mild dipping sauce. For adults, a small spoon of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can lift the flavor. The dish pairs well with mild sides so the casserole stays the star.
STORAGE & FREEZING : Tater Tot Casserole
To store, cool the casserole to room temperature. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or move portions to airtight containers. Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a 350°F oven until hot, about 15 to 20 minutes for a whole dish, or 8 to 10 minutes for single portions. To freeze, place in a freezer-safe dish or wrap tightly with foil and plastic. Label with the date. Freeze for up to 2 months. To bake from frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake at 350°F until hot. Or bake from frozen at 375°F, covered, until heated through, then uncover to crisp the tots.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- Green salad with a light vinaigrette to cut the richness.
- Steamed broccoli or green beans for color and vitamins.
- Corn on the cob or buttered corn for a sweet touch.
- A simple slaw to add crunch and a tangy note.
- Sliced pickles or pickled onions for a bright contrast.
VARIATIONS
- Veggie boost: Add a cup of peas, carrots, or corn to the beef mixture.
- Cheesy layer: Use pepper jack or Monterey Jack for a mild spice.
- Mushroom mix: Stir in cooked mushrooms for more mushroom flavor.
- Turkey or chicken: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or shredded chicken.
- Cream swap: Use cream of chicken soup instead of mushroom for a different taste.
- Spicy kick: Mix in a little chili powder or diced green chiles for heat.
- Herb twist: Add a teaspoon of dried oregano or thyme to the meat mix.
FAQs (minimum 4 FAQ)
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes. Assemble the casserole in a baking dish. Cover and keep in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if the dish is cold.
Q: Can I skip the onion?
A: Yes. You can skip the onion or use onion powder for a mild flavor. You can also use shallots or green onions for a different taste.
Q: What cheese works best?
A: Cheddar is classic, but any good melting cheese works. Try Monterey Jack, Colby, or a mix of cheeses.
Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
A: You can, but the cook time will change. Parboil or roast small potato pieces before adding them so they cook through.
Q: Is this recipe freezer friendly?
A: Yes. Cover well and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking for best results.
Q: How do I make it gluten free?
A: Use a gluten-free cream soup or homemade white sauce. Check that your tater tots are gluten free, and use gluten-free seasonings.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Tater Tot Casserole
Make the meat mixture a day ahead and chill it. Keep the cheese in the fridge until you are ready to bake. Assemble the whole casserole the night before and cover it well. Remove it from the fridge 20 minutes before you bake so it warms a bit. If you freeze a fully assembled casserole, thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking. Keep tater tots frozen until the last minute to keep them crisp on the top when baked. Label containers with the date so you use older items first.
Conclusion
This Tater Tot Casserole is an easy and warm meal for busy nights. It uses few ingredients and gives a great mix of creamy, meaty, and crisp textures. For a classic family-style version you can compare to other home cooks’ favorites, see The BEST Tater Tot Casserole – Mom On Timeout. If you want a tested recipe with video help, try this Tater Tot Casserole Recipe (with Video). For a light take and a few different tips, read Easy Tater Tot Casserole • Salt & Lavender. These pages offer good ideas to tweak the recipe to your taste.
Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and combine well.
- In a greased baking dish, layer the beef mixture at the bottom.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the beef mixture.
- Top with a layer of frozen tater tots evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the tater tots are golden brown.
- Serve hot and enjoy!