Hello, you know that dish you can throw together when you’re short on time, but still want something warm and filling? I mean, crazy delicious?

Well, hold on because this Tater Tot Casserole is exactly that, and you will love it.

Simple ingredients, no hard steps, and so good you’ll want seconds. Let me show you how I make mine, you’re gonna love how easy it is.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 (10.5 oz) can of cream of mushroom soup

• ½ cup sour cream

• 1 (15 oz) can green beans, drained (or use frozen)

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 (28–32 oz) bag frozen tater tots

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Optional: ½ tsp garlic powder

• Optional: ½ tsp onion powder

How to Make Tater Tot Casserole

Step 1: Preheat your oven

Set it to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready by the time you’re done prepping.

Step 2: Brown the beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat. Break it up and cook until fully browned. Drain the excess grease.

Step 3: Season the meat

Sprinkle in salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder if you’re using them. Stir everything together.

Step 4: Add the creamy base

Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. Mix until it’s all smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Add the veggies

Stir in the drained green beans. You can swap these for corn or peas if you like.

Step 6: Layer in the baking dish

Pour the beef mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.

Step 7: Add cheese

Sprinkle one cup of cheddar cheese over the beef layer.

Step 8: Add the tots

Top the casserole with a single layer of frozen tater tots. Line them up neatly or just pour them over—it all works.

Step 9: Bake

Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.

Step 10: Add more cheese

Take the dish out, sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese on top, and pop it back in the oven for another 5 minutes.

Step 11: Cool slightly and serve

Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. That way it sets up a bit and doesn’t burn your tongue.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not draining the beef: Extra grease will make the casserole greasy and soggy.

• Overcrowding the tots: Keep them in a single layer so they crisp up.

• Undercooking: Make sure the tater tots get that golden crunch—don’t take it out too early.

• Using too many veggies: Stick to about one can or cup so the texture doesn’t get mushy.

• Skipping the second cheese layer: That melted topping adds the perfect finish.

Recipe Best Tips

• Use sharp cheddar for the best flavor. It melts beautifully and adds a nice punch.

• Swap the soup if needed. Cream of chicken or cream of cheddar works too.

• Make it spicy. Add a few dashes of hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.

• Want more veggies? Add frozen corn or peas—just don’t overload it.

• Try it with breakfast sausage for a brunch twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a simple green salad

• Add ketchup or hot sauce on the side

• Pair with steamed broccoli or roasted veggies

• Serve with a glass of cold iced tea or lemonade

• Bring it to potlucks, it reheats well and feeds a crowd

Storage and Freezing

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or in the microwave.

• Freeze: Assemble the casserole, but don’t bake. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen (add about 15 minutes to the cook time).

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble everything and refrigerate it (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. Bake when you’re ready.

Q2: What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
A: Cream of chicken or cheddar soup both work well.

Q3: Can I use frozen vegetables?
A: Definitely. Just don’t thaw them first—add them straight into the beef mixture.

Q4: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A: Yep. It’s a great swap if you want something a bit lighter.

Q5: Are tater tots gluten-free?
A: Some are, some aren’t. Check the package if that matters to you.

Q6: Can I add more cheese?
A: Of course. If you’re a cheese lover, go for it. Add more in the middle or on top.

Q7: How do I make this crispier?
A: Use a convection oven setting if you have one. Or, after baking, broil the top for 2–3 minutes—just watch it closely!

Conclusion

That’s everything you need to make this easy and satisfying Tater Tot Casserole.

It’s warm, cheesy, filling, and always a hit—whether it’s dinner at home or a dish to pass.

If you try it, I’d love to hear what you added or changed. Share your version with me in the comments!

You Might Also Want To Try

• Ground Beef And Broccoli
• Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
• Chicken With Boursin Sauce

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