Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole – Family Comfort Food

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—warm, hearty, and loaded with flavor. Layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, and plenty of melted cheese are topped with crispy golden tater tots, creating a dish that’s as fun as it is satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family gatherings, this casserole is easy to assemble and always a crowd-pleaser. The crispy tater tots add texture, while the cheesy filling makes every bite indulgent and comforting. It’s also versatile, allowing for endless variations with vegetables, different proteins, or added spices. Whether served as a main dish or a side, this casserole guarantees second helpings and plenty of smiles around the table.

Print

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef – Savory and hearty, it forms the base layer of the casserole.

Onion – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the beef mixture.

Garlic – Provides robust, savory notes that enhance the filling.

Cream of mushroom soup – Lends creaminess and ties the beef and vegetables together.

Milk – Helps thin the soup slightly for a smoother texture.

Frozen mixed vegetables – A colorful and nutritious addition that balances the richness.

Cheddar cheese – Sharp and melty, it infuses the casserole with gooey cheesiness.

Frozen tater tots – The crispy topping that makes this dish so iconic.

Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning both the beef and the casserole layers.

Paprika (optional) – Adds a smoky touch and enhances color.

Fresh parsley – Sprinkled on top for a pop of freshness before serving.

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and crumbly. Drain any excess fat, then stir in diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Add cream of mushroom soup, milk, mixed vegetables, salt, pepper, and paprika if using. Stir until well combined, then remove from heat.

Spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle a generous layer of cheddar cheese on top. Arrange frozen tater tots in neat rows over the cheese, covering the casserole completely.

Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy. For extra cheesiness, sprinkle additional cheese over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking. Garnish with parsley before serving hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6–8 servings. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and baking requires 40 minutes. In total, the dish is ready in just under an hour.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes to restore crispiness, or in the microwave for a quicker option. For longer storage, freeze the casserole in portions for up to 2 months, reheating in the oven before serving.

Variations and Customizations

Spicy Version – Add diced jalapeños or chili powder to the beef mixture for extra heat.

Breakfast Casserole – Swap beef for breakfast sausage and add scrambled eggs for a morning twist.

Chicken Tater Tot Casserole – Replace beef with shredded rotisserie chicken and cream of chicken soup.

Vegetarian Option – Omit meat and use extra vegetables or a plant-based protein substitute.

BBQ Style – Stir barbecue sauce into the beef mixture for a smoky-sweet flavor.

Cheese Lovers’ Upgrade – Mix different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.

Loaded Topping – Garnish with bacon bits, green onions, or sour cream before serving.

One-Pot Shortcut – Prepare the beef mixture in a cast-iron skillet, top with cheese and tots, and bake directly in the skillet.

FAQs

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Yes, just sauté them slightly before adding to the filling to ensure they cook through.

Do I need to thaw the tater tots first?

No, add them frozen—they crisp up better that way.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I freeze the casserole before baking?

Yes, assemble it, cover tightly, and freeze. Bake from frozen, adding extra cooking time.

What’s the best cheese for this recipe?

Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can mix in mozzarella, pepper jack, or Colby for variety.

How do I make it healthier?

Use lean ground beef, reduced-fat cheese, and light cream of mushroom soup.

Conclusion

Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole is a classic comfort dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. With its creamy beef filling, gooey cheese, and crispy tater tot topping, it brings together everything you love about homestyle cooking in one simple recipe. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep, this casserole is sure to become a household favorite that everyone looks forward to.

Hungry for more?  Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!