Classic Tater Tot Casserole
A hearty and comforting Midwestern classic, this casserole features a savory ground beef and vegetable filling topped with a generous layer of crispy, golden tater tots and melted cheddar cheese.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Ground beef(80/20 or 85/15 recommended for flavor)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped (optional, but adds flavor))
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced (optional, but adds flavor))
- 2 cups Mixed vegetables(frozen, such as peas, carrots, corn, and green beans)
- 1 10.5 oz can Cream of mushroom soup(undiluted)
- 0.5 cup Milk or water(to thin the soup slightly)
- 1 teaspoon Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper(or to taste)
- 1 32 oz bag Tater tots(frozen)
- 1 cup Cheddar cheese(shredded)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is browned and no longer pink. If using, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.
⏱️ 10-12 minutes - 3
Stir in the minced garlic (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
⏱️ 1 minute - 4
Add the frozen mixed vegetables to the skillet with the beef. Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes, just to slightly thaw the vegetables.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 5
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk (or water) until smooth. Pour this mixture over the beef and vegetable mixture in the skillet. Stir well to coat everything evenly. The mixture should be moist but not soupy.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 6
Pour the beef and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
⏱️ 1 minute - 7
Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single, even layer over the beef mixture. Try to cover as much of the surface as possible.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 8
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
⏱️ 30-35 minutes - 9
Remove the casserole from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tater tots. Return to the oven for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
⏱️ 5-10 minutes - 10
Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly.
⏱️ 5-10 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For an extra crispy topping, ensure the tater tots are spread in a single layer and don't overlap too much.
- ✓You can substitute cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for cream of mushroom if preferred.
- ✓Adding a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the beef mixture can enhance the flavor.
- ✓This casserole is best served hot, straight from the oven.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a layer of canned fried onions on top of the beef mixture before adding the tater tots for extra crunch.
- For a 'Mexican' twist, use taco-seasoned ground beef and top with Monterey Jack cheese.
- Incorporate a can of drained diced tomatoes into the beef mixture for added moisture and flavor.