Description

This Creamy Ground Beef Tater Tot Casserole is the kind of cozy, cheesy comfort food that makes everyone run to the table. Savory seasoned beef gets folded into a rich, creamy sauce, layered with melty cheddar, then topped with crispy golden tater tots. It’s an easy family dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or anytime you want a warm, satisfying casserole with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb (450 g) ground beef
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium yellow or white onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp salt (or to taste)
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika (or smoked paprika)
1 can (10.5 oz / 298 g) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
3/4 cup (180 g) sour cream
2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese (or blend), divided
1 bag (32 oz / 907 g) frozen tater tots

Cheese divide: Use 1 1/2 cups (150 g) in the filling and 1/2 cup (50 g) on top (optional but delicious).

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft.
Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Add the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned, 6–8 minutes. Drain excess grease if needed.
Season the beef with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir well so the seasoning coats everything.
Reduce heat to low. Stir in the cream soup and sour cream until smooth and creamy.
Mix in 1 1/2 cups (150 g) of the shredded cheese and stir until melted and well combined.
Spread the creamy beef mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Arrange the frozen tater tots in an even layer on top (no need to thaw).
Bake for 30–35 minutes until the tots are crisp and golden and the edges are bubbling.
If you want extra cheesy goodness, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup (50 g) cheese over the top and bake 5 more minutes until melted.
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving so it sets up nicely.

Notes

Tips: For crispier tater tots, place the casserole on the upper rack for the last 10 minutes. If you like heat, add 1/4–1/2 tsp chili flakes or a diced jalapeño to the beef while browning.

Substitutions: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. Use cream of chicken if you don’t love mushrooms. Mix in 1 cup of frozen peas, corn, or chopped green beans for extra veggies.

Storage: Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15–20 minutes to re-crisp the tots, or microwave for convenience.

Make-ahead: Assemble the beef mixture in the dish, cover and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Add the tater tots right before baking for the best crunch.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: B
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 520
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 890mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 24g
Cholesterol: 95mg