This Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole is a fun and comforting dish! It combines crispy tater tots, creamy cheese, and tasty ground beef for a meal everyone will love.
Who can resist a casserole topped with golden tater tots? I mean, you might need a big spoon because this dish will disappear fast! 😄
I enjoy making this easy casserole on busy nights. Just layer everything in a dish, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen. Dinner has never been so simple and delicious!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: A 32 oz bag is perfect for this dish. If you can’t find tater tots, you can use homemade potato rounds or even hash browns. Personally, I love the crispy texture of tater tots, but both options work well!
Ground Beef or Turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner choice, while beef adds a rich flavor. If you want to skip meat, try using black beans or lentils for a vegetarian option. It’s a great way to add protein and fiber!
Onion: A medium diced onion adds flavor. You can swap it for shallots or green onions for a milder taste, or even leave it out entirely if you’re not a fan of onions.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: If you prefer a healthier option, use a low-fat version or homemade cream soup. For a dairy-free substitute, consider using coconut cream or almond cream, though it will change the flavor a bit.
Cheeses: Cheddar and mozzarella are delicious together. You can use any melty cheese you prefer like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy twist!
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess. Greek yogurt is a great alternative for more protein. Just make sure to use plain, unsweetened yogurt for the best results.
How Do I Cook the Ground Meat Just Right?
Cooking ground meat can be tricky, but it’s key to get it right. Start by heating your skillet over medium heat for even cooking. Brown the meat with the diced onions until it’s no longer pink and the onions are soft.
- Keep stirring occasionally to break up the meat and ensure even cooking.
- Drain any excess fat, which prevents your casserole from being greasy.
- Once cooked, combine it with the other ingredients while still warm for better blending of flavors.
Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Casserole:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to bake. Total time is around 50 minutes before it’s ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it nice and hot while you prepare the casserole.
2. Cook the Meat and Onion:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef or turkey along with the diced onion. Cook until the meat is nicely browned and the onion is soft and translucent. If there’s any excess fat, carefully drain it off before moving to the next step.
3. Mix in the Creamy Ingredients:
Once the meat and onions are cooked, add the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and creamy.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread the meat mixture evenly in the bottom. Then, layer the frozen tater tots on top of the meat mixture, making sure they are evenly distributed.
5. Add the Cheesy Goodness:
Now for the best part! Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the tater tots. Don’t be shy with the cheese—it’s the star of the show!
6. Bake the Casserole:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese is all bubbly and gooey.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Once it’s ready, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Before diving in, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color. Enjoy your cheesy tater tot casserole with family and friends!
Can I Use Different Proteins?
Absolutely! If you want, you can substitute the ground beef or turkey with ground chicken, sausage, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian option. Just ensure any meat is cooked thoroughly before mixing it into the casserole.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the casserole in advance! Assemble everything up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just remove the cover and add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through.
What Are Good Storage Tips for Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. To reheat from frozen, bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions on high until warm.
Can I Use Fresh Vegetables Instead of Onion?
Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach if you prefer. Just sauté them along with the meat until they’re tender before adding to the casserole. This will add extra flavor and nutrition!
