If you’re craving a cozy, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug from your childhood, this Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe is your new best friend. With layers of savory ground beef, creamy mushroom sauce, crispy tater tots, and melted cheddar cheese, it’s a simple yet irresistible combination that satisfies every craving. Whether you’re feeding a family or want a make-ahead meal that pleases everyone, this classic casserole brings hearty flavors and textures together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and pantry-friendly, but each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and crispy textures that make this casserole such a crowd-pleaser.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty base that brings rich flavor and protein to the dish.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Creates that creamy, comforting sauce everyone loves.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the mushroom soup for a smooth, luscious texture.
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots: The crispy, golden topping that’s fun and crunchy.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a gooey, melty finish full of sharp flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring every element to life.
How to Make Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This preps your dish to cook evenly and keeps the casserole from sticking, making cleanup a breeze later.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns. This step builds the flavor foundation. Once browned, drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy casserole.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook it with the beef for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. The onions bring a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the meat.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Beef Mixture
Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and milk, seasoning with salt and pepper. Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld all those comforting flavors into a creamy, dreamy sauce.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the creamy beef mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish. Then, layer the frozen tater tots across the top, covering the entire surface for a golden, crispy crust after baking.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Pop the casserole into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the tater tots turn golden brown and crispy. This is when the magic happens as the tots crisp up and the filling bubbles happily underneath.
Step 7: Add Cheese and Final Bake
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the hot tater tots, then bake for another 5 minutes. The cheese melts into a glorious, gooey layer that seals in all the deliciousness.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, let your Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe cool for a few minutes before digging in. This cool down helps everything set nicely and makes serving easier, so get ready for a hearty, satisfying bite!
How to Serve Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives on top just before serving adds a lovely splash of color and a mild, fresh flavor that balances the richness of the casserole beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair your casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans for some crunch and freshness that keeps the meal balanced and vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this casserole in individual ramekins or small baking dishes for each guest. It’s perfect for dinner parties or meal prep, making the experience extra special and personalized.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, perfect for quick lunches or dinners.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed to maintain those wonderful textures.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly. To keep the top crispy, you can broil it for a minute or two at the end of reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of soup instead of cream of mushroom?
Absolutely! Cream of chicken or cream of celery soup can be used for a slightly different flavor profile, but the creamy texture is key to the dish’s success.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or cooked lentils, and use a vegetarian-friendly cream of mushroom soup to keep it delicious and hearty.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Peas, corn, or diced bell peppers can be stirred into the beef mixture before baking to boost the nutrition and add wonderful pops of color and texture.
What if I don’t have shredded cheddar cheese?
You can use any melty cheese you like, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend; each will add its unique flavor and gooeyness.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture before baking for a subtle kick that warms the palate.
Final Thoughts
This Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe is a true comfort food delight that brings people together around the dinner table. It’s easy to prepare, adaptable to your tastes, and deeply satisfying on every level. Don’t hesitate to give this classic a try—you’ll quickly see why it’s become a favorite for so many home cooks and families!
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Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and easy-to-make Tater Tot Casserole featuring a savory ground beef and mushroom cream sauce base, topped with crispy tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. This classic American casserole is perfect for a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick during baking.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned. Drain any excess fat to avoid greasiness.
- Sauté the Onion: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the browned beef and cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent.
- Make the Creamy Beef Mixture: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and milk into the beef and onion mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow it to simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to combine flavors well.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the creamy beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Then layer the frozen tater tots evenly over the top, covering the beef mixture completely.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy on the top.
- Add Cheese and Final Bake: Remove the casserole from the oven, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tater tots, and return it to the oven. Bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly. Then enjoy this warm, hearty, and delicious meal!
Notes
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or celery soup for a different flavor.
- For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or chili powder to the beef mixture.
- Make sure to drain the ground beef well to prevent a greasy casserole.
- Leftover casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
- To make it gluten-free, verify the cream of mushroom soup and tater tots are gluten-free brands.
