why make this recipe
Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole is a comforting dish that combines simple ingredients into a delicious meal. It is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. The crispy tater tots and gooey cheese create a delightful texture that everyone loves. Plus, it is easy to prepare and requires minimal effort, making it a hit among both novice and experienced cooks.
how to make Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
- 2 green onions (sliced, optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef with the diced onion over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 more minute.
- In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, half of the shredded cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika together until well combined.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Arrange frozen tater tots on top in a single layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots. Bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted.
- If desired, garnish with sliced green onions before serving. Serve hot.
how to serve Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole
Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole is best served hot, straight from the oven. You can serve it as a main dish alongside a simple salad or some steamed vegetables. It is also great on its own as a comforting meal. Consider offering some hot sauce or ketchup on the side for guests who might like a little extra flavor.
how to store Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole
To store leftovers, place the casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for about 3–4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the microwave or in the oven until warm throughout. If freezing, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can last up to 2–3 months in the freezer.
tips to make Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole
- For a spicier kick, add some chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or cooked sausage for a different flavor.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for a unique taste.
- Add some vegetables like frozen corn, peas, or bell peppers to the casserole for extra nutrition.
variation
You can easily make a vegetarian version of Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole by using black beans or lentils instead of meat. Just cook the beans or lentils and mix them in with the sauce and vegetables.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
Yes! You can use sliced or diced fresh potatoes, but they may require more cooking time to become tender and crispy.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it a day in advance. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook it.
What can I serve with Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a fresh salad, steamed veggies, or even some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef with the diced onion over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 more minute.
- In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, half of the shredded cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika together until well combined.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Arrange frozen tater tots on top in a single layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots. Bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted.
- If desired, garnish with sliced green onions before serving. Serve hot.