Family Favorite Tater Tot Casserole

A comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole layered with savory ground beef, creamy sauce, cheese, and crispy tater tots—perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.

This recipe has become a go-to favorite in my family, especially when I need a hearty meal that’s both simple to prepare and satisfying to eat.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (85% lean recommended)
• Onion: 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Frozen peas and carrots: 1 cup (150 g)
• Condensed cream of mushroom soup: 1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g)
• Whole milk: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
• Shredded cheddar cheese: 2 cups (200 g), divided
• Worcestershire sauce: 1/2 tsp
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: to taste
• Frozen tater tots: 1 bag (32 oz / 900 g)

Instructions

Handle kitchen cleanup easily by disposing of food scraps, packaging, and cooking waste without leaks or odors.

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Step 1:

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.

Step 2:

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5 7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3:

Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2 3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 4:

Stir in frozen peas and carrots. Cook for 2 more minutes.

Step 5:

Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, 1 cup (100 g) cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and heated through.

Step 6:

Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Step 7:

Sprinkle 1/2 cup (50 g) cheddar cheese over the beef layer.

Step 8:

Arrange frozen tater tots in a single, even layer on top.

Step 9:

Bake uncovered for 35 minutes. Remove from oven, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup (50 g) cheddar cheese over the tater tots, and bake for another 10 minutes, until cheese is melted and tots are golden brown.

Step 10:

Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Handle kitchen cleanup easily by disposing of food scraps, packaging, and cooking waste without leaks or odors.

Check price on Amazon

Handle kitchen cleanup easily by disposing of food scraps, packaging, and cooking waste without leaks or odors.

Check price on Amazon

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This dish always brings my family together, sparking warm conversations and full bellies at the dinner table.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or swap in ground turkey for a lighter version. Substitute cream of chicken soup if desired. Serve with a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Required Tools

Large skillet, 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish, Mixing spoon, Measuring cups and spoons, Oven

Nutritional Information

Calories 480, Total Fat 28 g, Carbohydrates 35 g, Protein 20 g per serving

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Toast bread, bagels, and sourdough evenly for breakfast, sandwiches, and quick meal prep.

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This casserole makes weeknight dinners effortless and delicious. It’s sure to become a favorite in your home too.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute ground beef with another meat?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative while maintaining flavor and texture.

→ What can I serve alongside this dish?

A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables complement the rich flavors and add freshness to the meal.

→ Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the layers and refrigerate before baking. Add extra baking time if baking from cold.

→ Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen peas and carrots?

Fresh peas and carrots can be used if cooked lightly beforehand to maintain tenderness in the dish.

→ How do I achieve crispy tater tots on top?

Baking uncovered allows the tater tots to crisp up nicely. Adding cheese on top near the end enhances browning and flavor.