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image of ground beef tater tots cheddar cheese cream of mushroom soup onion garlic salt pepper arranged on white marble counter with clear glass bowls rustic wooden kitchen sets soft diffuse daylight

The Ultimate Comfort: Our Best Ever Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

A classic, easy-to-make Tater Tot Casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, a creamy mushroom sauce, and a crispy tater tot topping. This comforting dish is perfect for weeknight dinners and family gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Casserole
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ground Beef Layer
  • 1.5 lb ground beef 80/20 preferred for flavor
  • 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce secret depth ingredient
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
Creamy Base
  • 1 10.5-oz can condensed cream of mushroom soup or cream of chicken soup
  • 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream for extra richness
Optional Vegetables
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables peas, carrots, corn
Cheese Layer
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided, sharp cheddar recommended
Tater Tot Topping
  • 1 32-oz bag frozen tater tots do not thaw

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish,
  • Large skillet,
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat.
  3. Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
  4. Season the beef mixture with salt, black pepper, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce. If using, add frozen vegetables and stir to combine.
  5. Reduce heat to low. Stir in the condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk. Mix until smooth and gently simmering.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
  7. Pour the beef mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  8. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer over the beef mixture, packing them tightly.
  9. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, until center is hot and bubbly.
  10. Remove from oven and sprinkle remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the tater tots.
  11. Return to oven for 5-10 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly, and tater tots are golden brown.
  12. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the center to set.

Notes

For extra crispness, spray tater tots with cooking spray before baking or toss with melted butter. Store leftovers refrigerated for up to 4 days. Reheat in oven at 350°F for best texture.
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