Is there anything more comforting than a bubbling casserole fresh from the oven? Meet your new weeknight hero: Tater Tot Casserole. This easy, cheesy, meaty bake has all the nostalgic vibes of a retro dinner, but with flavor upgrades that make it irresistible for today’s tastebuds.
We're talking golden, crispy tater tots layered over creamy beef and veggie filling, held together by melty cheese and a touch of seasoning magic. Whether you're feeding a hungry family, prepping for a potluck, or just craving a taste of childhood, this recipe checks all the boxes.
Why You’ll Love This Tater Tot Casserole
✅ Super easy to prep—just layer and bake
✅ Family-friendly comfort food
✅ Customizable with pantry staples
✅ Freezer-friendly and great for leftovers
✅ Crispy tater tots + cheesy beef = happiness
What Is Tater Tot Casserole?
Tater Tot Casserole (a.k.a. Tater Tot Hotdish in the Midwest) is a classic American dish made with a creamy ground beef and vegetable base, topped with frozen tater tots and baked until bubbly and golden. It’s a one-dish wonder that’s satisfying, budget-friendly, and endlessly adaptable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup milk
• 1½ cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, etc.)
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 (28 oz) bag frozen tater tots
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
How to Make Tater Tot Casserole
Step 1: Cook the Beef Base
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Add diced onion and garlic; cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in cream of mushroom soup, milk, and frozen vegetables. Mix well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
1. Spread the beef mixture evenly into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the beef layer.
3. Arrange tater tots in a single layer across the top.
Step 3: Bake to Crispy Perfection
1. Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until tots are golden brown and crispy.
2. Sprinkle remaining cheese over the top and bake for an additional 5 minutes until melted.
3. Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Tips & Variations
💡 Swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken or cheddar soup.
💡 Add a dash of Worcestershire or hot sauce for extra flavor.
💡 Use fresh veggies if preferred—just sauté them slightly first.
💡 Make it vegetarian by swapping in lentils or meatless crumbles.
Make-Ahead & Storage
To prep ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
To freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze before baking. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 50–55 minutes.
Leftovers: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
FAQs
Can I use a different protein?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or meatless crumbles work perfectly.
Are homemade tater tots okay to use?
Absolutely, just make sure they’re already cooked or crisped before topping.
What goes well with Tater Tot Casserole?
A fresh green salad, steamed broccoli, or coleslaw pair great for balance.
Final Thoughts
Tater Tot Casserole is one of those feel-good meals that’s just as fun to make as it is to eat. With crispy tots, creamy beefy filling, and loads of cheese, it’s pure comfort in a casserole dish.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding a hungry crowd—this classic never goes out of style.
