🥘 Easy Tater Tot Casserole Recipe – The Ultimate Family Comfort Food

Introduction

This easy Tater Tot Casserole recipe is the ultimate comfort food — cheesy, hearty, and ready in under an hour. Perfect for busy weeknights

There’s nothing quite like the cozy comfort of a Tater Tot Casserole on a busy weeknight. This classic comfort food casserole combines crispy golden tater tots, seasoned ground beef, creamy soup, and melted cheese into one hearty dish that’s loved by both kids and adults. It’s the kind of family dinner recipe that brings everyone to the table — simple, filling, and ready in less than an hour. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering, potluck, or just need a quick weeknight meal, this easy Tater Tot Casserole delivers every time.

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🕒 Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6

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🧂 Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

• 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Optional: 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, or corn)

• Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions

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🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the meat mixture:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat.

3. Add the creamy layer:
   Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and your optional vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Assemble the casserole:
   Spread the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Arrange the tater tots in a single layer on top of the mixture.

5. Bake until bubbly:
   Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the tater tots are crispy and golden brown.

6. Add the finishing touch:
   Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until melted and gooey.

7. Serve and enjoy:
   Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh pop of color.

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🌟 Tips & Variations

• Lighter Version: Swap ground beef for lean ground turkey and use light sour cream or Greek yogurt.

• Veggie Boost: Add chopped broccoli, green beans, or spinach for a hidden veggie upgrade.

• Cheese Lovers: Mix in Monterey Jack or mozzarella for an extra cheesy bite.

• Spicy Twist: Add a dash of chili powder or hot sauce to the meat mixture for a little heat.

• Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake — perfect for busy evenings.

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❤️ Conclusion

This easy Tater Tot Casserole is the perfect mix of comfort, flavor, and convenience. It’s one of those family dinner recipes that never gets old — cheesy, hearty, and guaranteed to bring smiles all around the table. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your version in the comments below. We’d love to hear how you make it your own!