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Delicious Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef topped with crispy tater tots

Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

This tater tot casserole blends savory ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and melty cheddar cheese into a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish that offers warmth and comfort.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef Use ground turkey or lean chicken for a lighter option.
  • 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz) Can substitute with a homemade cream sauce.
  • ½ cup sour cream Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 small onion, diced Yellow or white onions are preferred for flavor.
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided Mix of sharp and mild cheddar recommended.
  • 1 bag frozen tater tots (32 oz) Thicker, crisper tots deliver a better crunchy top.
  • to taste salt and pepper Adjust seasoning to taste.
  • optional garlic powder, paprika, or any favorite spices For added flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and add diced onions. Cook until softened. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices. Drain any excess fat.
  3. Stir in cream of mushroom soup and sour cream, mixing well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
  4. Grease a casserole dish and spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom.
  5. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
  6. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.
  7. Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
  8. Remove the casserole from the oven and top with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Allow the casserole to rest before serving for easier portions. For added crispiness, consider broiling briefly after baking.