Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

Tater tot casserole with ground beef is one of those feel-good recipes that never fails to satisfy. It’s rich, hearty, and incredibly easy to make, bringing together crispy tater tots, creamy mushroom sauce, savory ground beef, and layers of melted cheese. Whether I’m cooking for a busy weeknight or feeding a hungry crowd, this dish always hits the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It’s the perfect example of comfort food done right—crispy on top, creamy in the middle, and packed with savory goodness in every bite. It only takes a handful of pantry staples and freezer-friendly ingredients to create a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—I can easily tweak it with extra veggies or a bit of spice depending on what I have on hand.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

• ½ cup sour cream

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

• 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional seasonings: garlic powder, paprika, or any favorite spices

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. I like to toss in the diced onions at the same time so they soften and flavor the meat. I season the mixture with salt, pepper, and any optional spices I’m in the mood for. Once cooked, I drain any excess fat to keep things from getting greasy.

3. Mix in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. I stir until everything is well combined and creamy, letting it heat through for a couple of minutes.

4. Layer the casserole. I grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread the beef mixture evenly at the bottom.

5. Add the first cheese layer. I sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar over the beef.

6. Top with tater tots. I arrange them in a single layer, evenly spaced for maximum crispiness.

7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the tots are golden and the casserole is bubbly.

8. Add the final cheese layer. I sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and return the dish to the oven for 5 more minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted.

9. Let it rest. I let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving so it holds its shape nicely when sliced.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 35-40 minutes

• Total time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

I often switch things up depending on what I have in the fridge:

• Meat swaps: Ground turkey or chicken works well for a leaner version. Plant-based crumbles are a great vegetarian option.

• Cheese choices: I sometimes use pepper jack for a spicy twist or a mozzarella blend for extra meltiness.

• Vegetables: Peas, corn, mushrooms, or bell peppers mix beautifully into the beef layer. I like to sauté them first to soften them up.

• Extra flavor: A dash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of chili flakes adds more depth and heat.

storage/reheating

This casserole stores and reheats beautifully.

• Refrigerator: I let leftovers cool completely, then cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: For longer storage, I freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2-3 months.

• Reheating: In the oven, I cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, removing the foil at the end to crisp up the tots. In a hurry, the microwave works, but I often pop it under the broiler for a minute or two afterward to get that crispy top back.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, I often assemble the entire casserole, cover it, and store it in the fridge overnight. When I’m ready to bake, I let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, then bake as usual. It’s a great way to save time on busy days.

How do I make it dairy-free?

I’ve had success using dairy-free sour cream, cheese, and a plant-based mushroom soup. The flavor stays rich and creamy even without the dairy.

What’s the best way to keep tater tots crispy?

I always use frozen tater tots straight from the freezer and avoid overlapping them. For extra crispiness, a quick broil at the end of baking does the trick.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Absolutely. I like to add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or corn to the beef mixture. They add color, texture, and nutrition without changing the cozy feel of the dish.

How can I make it spicier?

I usually add a pinch of cayenne, chili powder, or even a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef layer. Swapping in pepper jack cheese also adds a nice kick.

Conclusion

This tater tot casserole with ground beef has earned its place as one of my go-to comfort meals. It’s warm, flavorful, and just as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Whether I’m making it for a crowd or saving it for leftovers, it always hits the spot. With a few simple tweaks, it can fit just about any taste or dietary need, making it a timeless favorite in my kitchen.