Tater tot casserole with ground beef is a comforting, hearty dish that combines savory beef, creamy sauce, and crispy golden tater tots.
It’s a perfect meal for weeknights, potlucks, or family dinners because it’s easy to prepare and loved by both kids and adults.
With simple ingredients, this casserole delivers layers of flavor and texture, making it a satisfying one-pan dinner that’s both filling and delicious.
Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef
This tater tot casserole is a rich, flavorful dish featuring seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, and a crunchy tater tot topping.
It’s baked until golden brown and bubbly, creating a perfect balance between soft, creamy layers and crisp, golden potatoes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 package (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Ground Beef:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Add diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing for 3–4 minutes until softened. Drain excess fat if necessary. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika, ensuring the beef mixture is flavorful and well-coated.
Make the Creamy Base:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. Mix thoroughly until the sauce is smooth and evenly distributed with the beef. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. This mixture will be the creamy, savory foundation of the casserole.
Assemble the Casserole:
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or cooking spray. Spread the beef and sauce mixture evenly in the dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top for an extra layer of flavor. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top, covering the entire surface.
Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy. The cheese should be melted and bubbly. For extra crispiness, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
For a twist, you can add vegetables or seasonings to enhance your casserole. Frozen peas, corn, or diced bell peppers can be stirred into the beef mixture before baking.
For more depth of flavor, try adding a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika.
These optional ingredients give the casserole extra texture and a richer taste without complicating the recipe.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until warmed through.
Alternatively, individual portions can be microwaved for 1–2 minutes.
For the crispiest tater tots after storage, broil uncovered for 2–3 minutes to restore the golden texture.
Conclusion
Tater tot casserole with ground beef is a simple, crowd-pleasing dish that combines creamy, savory, and crispy textures in every bite.
It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this casserole is a timeless comfort food that can be customized with your favorite add-ins, making it a staple recipe for busy nights and happy appetites.