There’s something magical about a Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef—it’s the kind of dish that makes you feel hugged from the inside out. Whether it’s a Tuesday night when you’ve just finished a marathon of errands or a cozy Sunday dinner with the family, this casserole is a warm, cheesy lifesaver. I still remember the first time I made this for my family—there wasn’t a crumb left, and my kids asked for seconds before I’d even sat down!
This easy casserole recipe hits that perfect trifecta: comforting, budget-friendly, and deliciously simple. You only need one pan, a few pantry staples, and about 45 minutes before your kitchen smells like heaven. Think creamy, savory ground beef layered with golden, crispy tater tots and gooey cheddar cheese—it’s the definition of family comfort food.
So, grab your apron and your favorite casserole dish—because tonight, we’re baking up a nostalgic classic that never goes out of style.
Why You’ll Love This Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef
If you grew up on hearty casseroles, this recipe will take you straight back to those cozy, no-fuss dinners. It’s quick to make, easily customizable, and kid-approved. Plus, it freezes beautifully for those nights when you just can’t deal with takeout again.
This cheesy tater tot casserole is also great for feeding a crowd. Whether it’s a potluck, game day, or just a weeknight where everyone’s somehow starving at once, you’ll love how easily it comes together—and disappears just as fast!
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Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food — creamy, cheesy, and perfectly crispy on top. Made with simple ingredients like ground beef, tater tots, cheddar cheese, and creamy mushroom soup, it’s a hearty family favorite that comes together in under an hour. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just need a cozy weeknight dinner, this easy casserole recipe delivers flavor, warmth, and nostalgia in every bite.
Ingredients
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450 g (1 lb) ground beef
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1 can (295 g / 10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
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120 ml (½ cup) sour cream
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1 small onion, diced
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200 g (2 cups) shredded cheddar cheese, divided
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900 g (32 oz) frozen tater tots
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or your favorite spices
Instructions
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Preheat oven – Set to 190°C (375°F) and lightly grease a casserole dish.
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Cook the beef – In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef for 6–8 minutes. Add diced onion and cook another 3–4 minutes until softened. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices. Drain excess fat.
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Mix together – Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream until well combined. Warm through for 2–3 minutes.
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Layer the casserole – Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared dish. Sprinkle half the cheese over the top.
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Add tater tots – Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese.
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Bake – Bake for 25–30 minutes until the tots are golden brown and crispy.
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Finish and serve – Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and bake another 5 minutes, until melted and bubbly. Cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Swap cream of mushroom for cream of chicken or bacon for a flavor twist.
Add veggies like peas, corn, or green beans for extra nutrition.
Don’t overcrowd the tots—crispiness is key!
Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for heat.
Makes great leftovers—store and reheat easily.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
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450 g (1 lb) ground beef
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1 can (295 g / 10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
-
120 ml (½ cup) sour cream
-
1 small onion, diced
-
200 g (2 cups) shredded cheddar cheese, divided
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900 g (32 oz) frozen tater tots
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or your favorite spices
How to Make Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef
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Preheat your oven: Set it to 190°C (375°F) and lightly grease a casserole dish.
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Cook the beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef for 6–8 minutes over medium heat. Add the onion and cook another 3–4 minutes until softened. Season with salt, pepper, and any optional spices. Drain off any excess fat.
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Mix it all: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream until creamy and combined. Let it warm through for a few minutes.
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Layer the casserole: Spread the beef mixture evenly in your prepared dish. Sprinkle half the cheese on top.
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Add the tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese.
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Bake: Pop it in the oven for 25–30 minutes, until the tater tots are crispy and golden brown.
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Top it off: Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and bake another 5 minutes, until melted and bubbly.
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Cool and serve: Let it rest for about 5 minutes before diving in.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole
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Want extra flavor? Swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken or even cream of bacon—yes, it’s a thing, and it’s glorious.
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Add some veggies: Toss in frozen peas, corn, or green beans to sneak in a little nutrition.
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Crispy tots are key! Don’t overcrowd them—give those golden beauties some room to crisp up.
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Make it spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for a zesty twist.
And if your cheese melts unevenly? Don’t panic. It’s just part of the casserole charm—rustic and irresistible.
Olivia’s Little Story
This recipe takes me back to my college days when I was learning how to make big, satisfying meals on a small budget. My roommates and I would crowd into our tiny kitchen, laughing and stealing tater tots off the pan before they even made it into the dish. Fast forward a few years, and now it’s one of my family’s most requested dinners. My husband says it tastes like “a hug in a pan,” and honestly, he’s not wrong.
There’s something timeless about a recipe like this—it’s comfort food that connects generations. Whether you’re cooking for one or for a family of five, this ground beef dinner has a way of bringing everyone to the table.
What to Serve with Tater Tot Casserole
This casserole is hearty on its own, but pairing it with something fresh balances things beautifully. A crisp green salad, roasted veggies, or even a simple bowl of coleslaw makes a great side. If you’re feeling indulgent, serve it with a slice of buttery garlic bread—because carbs are happiness.
And for dessert? A light fruit salad or a classic brownie hits just the right note after this cozy tater tot bake. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a family gathering, you’ll have a table full of smiles.
How to Store and Reheat
Got leftovers? Lucky you!
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Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Freeze: Wrap individual portions tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
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Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or microwave for 2–3 minutes.
Pro tip: If reheating from frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight first—it’ll keep that perfect cheesy texture instead of turning soggy.
FAQs About Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or even chicken makes this easy casserole recipe a bit lighter but just as comforting.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Cheddar is classic, but you can mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack for extra gooeyness.
Can I skip the soup?
You can, though it adds that signature creamy texture. Try substituting a mix of milk and cream cheese if you prefer.
Every Bite Feels Like Home
At the end of a long day, this Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is more than just dinner—it’s comfort in a dish. It’s that familiar taste that makes your kitchen feel like the coziest spot on earth. From the crispy tots to the creamy beef filling and melted cheese, every bite feels like home. So, go ahead—scoop up a serving (or two), and savor the kind of simple joy only comfort food can bring.
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