Description
This hearty Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is a comforting, easy-to-make dish perfect for family dinners. Featuring seasoned ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and layers of crispy tater tots topped with melted cheddar cheese, it’s a classic casserole that combines savory flavors with a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Optional: 1 cup frozen peas or green beans
Dairy and Pantry
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Frozen Foods
- 1 package (32 oz) frozen tater tots
Instructions
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a light coating of oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper. If using, stir in frozen peas or green beans and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Mix the Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well blended.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour the soup and sour cream mixture over the beef and spread evenly. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the sauce layer. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes until the tater tots are golden and crispy. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking to help it set, making it easier to serve. Then, scoop portions onto plates and enjoy your comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or celery soup if preferred.
- Adding frozen peas or green beans is optional but adds a nice touch of color and nutrients.
- For a lower fat option, use lean ground beef or ground turkey and reduced-fat sour cream and cheese.
- Tater tots should be arranged in a single layer to ensure even crisping.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
