Description
This Irresistible Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for family dinners. Featuring browned ground beef mixed with creamy mushroom soup, sour cream, and savory cheese, all topped with crispy tater tots baked to golden perfection, this casserole combines simple ingredients and easy steps for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional seasonings: garlic powder, paprika, or any favorite spices
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the casserole later.
- Brown Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s fully browned. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
- Sauté Onions: Add the diced onion to the skillet with the beef and cook until the onions soften and become translucent, enhancing the flavor base.
- Mix Creamy Ingredients: Stir in the can of cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the beef and onion mixture until thoroughly combined.
- Season: Add salt, pepper, and any desired optional spices like garlic powder or paprika to taste, adjusting seasonings to your preference.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Transfer the beef mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly for an even bake.
- Add Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots evenly over the beef mixture, creating a crispy, golden topping.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tater tots for a melty, cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden and the tater tots are crispy.
- Cool & Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving to set the casserole and prevent burns.
Notes
- You can customize this casserole by adding vegetables like peas or green beans for extra nutrition.
- Using sharp cheddar cheese will add a richer flavor.
- Make sure to drain the ground beef well to avoid a greasy casserole.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder.
