Cheesy Beef Tater Tot Casserole

Cheesy Beef Tater Tot Casserole

Introduction

This Cheesy Beef Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—warm, hearty, and incredibly satisfying. With a savory ground beef base simmered in rich sauce, topped with a layer of golden, crispy tater tots, and finished with melty cheese, this dish is everything you want in a cozy homemade meal. It’s a family-friendly classic that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, game nights, or chilly evenings when you crave something warm and filling. Each bite delivers a delicious mix of textures: crispy on top, cheesy in the middle, and meaty underneath. Simple to prepare and full of flavor, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Beef Layer

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup

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• 1 cup tomato sauce or beef gravy

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp black pepper

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• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

For the Tater Tot Topping

• 1 bag (about 32 oz) frozen tater tots

• 1–1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Directions

1. Prepare the Beef Mixture

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease.

3. Add diced onion and garlic to the beef and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

4. Stir in the cream soup, tomato sauce or gravy, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.

5. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

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6. Add 1 cup of cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy.

2. Assemble the Casserole

1. Spread the beef mixture evenly into a greased casserole dish or oven-safe skillet.

2. Arrange the tater tots in a single, tight layer on top of the beef.

3. Sprinkle 1–1½ cups of shredded cheese evenly over the tater tots.

3. Bake

1. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30–40 minutes, or until the tater tots are crispy and golden and the cheese is fully melted.

2. For an extra crispy top, broil for the last 2–3 minutes while keeping a close eye on it.

3. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot with a side of green salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted corn.

• Add a dollop of sour cream or drizzle of ranch for extra flavor.

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• Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prepping.

Storage

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven for best results.

Conclusion

Cheesy Beef Tater Tot Casserole is a delicious, comforting meal that delivers big flavor with little effort. Its savory beef base, crispy tater tot topping, and melty layers of cheese create a satisfying dish that everyone loves. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this casserole is a warm and hearty option that brings comfort to every bite. Make it once, and it will quickly find a permanent place in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!