Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

When the weather turns chilly, nothing hits the spot like a hearty, cheesy casserole straight from the oven. This classic Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef combines browned beef, creamy mushroom soup, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy golden tater tots baked to perfection.

Originally introduced to me in Winnipeg, Canada, this dish has quickly become one of my favorite comfort foods to make for family and friends.

It’s a one-dish wonder that’s easy to prepare, satisfying to eat, and perfect for busy weeknights, casual dinners, or even potlucks. With simple ingredients and a short prep time, this casserole is the kind of recipe that makes you feel warm and cozy from the very first bite.

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My Opinion

After making this recipe at home, I can confidently say it’s one of the easiest yet most comforting dishes I’ve ever cooked.

The first time I pulled it out of the oven, the golden tater tots formed the perfect crispy topping, while underneath was a bubbling, cheesy mixture of beef and mushroom sauce. The balance of textures — creamy, savory beef with crunchy tots on top — makes it absolutely irresistible.

I also love how forgiving this recipe is. The steps are straightforward, and even when I forgot to season the beef generously the first time, a little adjustment saved the dish.

Since then, I’ve tried a few variations, like swapping in pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick or adding bell peppers for extra flavor. Every version has been a hit at my dinner table, and it’s now a recipe I come back to again and again.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• ✅ Comfort food classic — cheesy, creamy, crispy, and hearty all in one.
• ✅ Family-friendly — kids and adults both love it.
• ✅ Easy to make — minimal prep with simple pantry staples.
• ✅ Customizable — swap cheeses, add veggies, or make it creamier with sour cream.
• ✅ Perfect for gatherings — doubles easily for potlucks or family dinners.

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Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Oven mitts

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Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced (about ½ cup)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) creamy mushroom soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• ½ cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready once the casserole is assembled.
2. Cook the Beef and Onions
   In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are softened, about 7–10 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
3. Mix in the Cream Base
   Stir in the creamy mushroom soup until the beef is coated evenly. If you’re using sour cream, add it now for extra creaminess and stir until fully combined.
4. Assemble the Casserole
   Transfer the beef mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
5. Add the Tater Tots
   Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single, even layer on top of the cheese. This will give you that crispy golden topping once baked.
6. Bake the Casserole
   Place the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes. The casserole should be bubbly, and the tater tots golden brown and crispy.
7. Cool Slightly and Serve
   Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This makes it easier to slice and enjoy.

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Variations

• Veggie Boost: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn for extra flavor.
• Cheese Swap: Use pepper jack, mozzarella, or a cheese blend for a new twist.
• Homemade Mushroom Sauce: Replace canned soup with a scratch-made sauce to control salt levels.
• Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover with foil, and refrigerate. Bake the next day, adding a few extra minutes if starting cold.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve, adding 5–10 extra minutes if cold.

What can I use instead of mushroom soup?
You can swap it with cream of chicken soup, cream of celery, or a homemade white sauce for a different flavor profile.

How do I reheat leftovers?
Leftovers can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwaved for a quicker option. The oven method keeps the tater tots crispier.

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Conclusion

This Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is more than just a recipe — it’s comfort in a dish.

With its cheesy, creamy layers and crispy potato topping, it’s a family-friendly meal that never fails to satisfy.

Whether you’re cooking for a casual Sunday dinner, a cozy night in, or a potluck, this casserole is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

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Category: Dinner, Comfort Food, Casserole

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