Cheesy Tater Tot Beef Casserole
A warm and satisfying classic, this hearty casserole combines crispy potato bites with flavorful ground beef in a rich, creamy sauce. Finished with melted cheddar and a golden top, it’s a go-to choice for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
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Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1 pound of either lean ground beef or turkey browned
- 1 medium-sized yellow or white onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves fresh garlic minced
- 10.5 ounces of condensed cream of mushroom soup cream of chicken is an acceptable alternative
- 1 cup full-fat sour cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese divided in half
- 32- ounce package of frozen tater tots
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt or to preference
- ½ teaspoon paprika optional, enhances color
- 2 stalks green onions finely sliced for optional garnish
Instructions
- Set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat a 9x13-inch casserole dish with non-stick spray or a thin layer of oil.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat along with the diced onion until the meat is no longer pink and the onions are softened. Drain off any rendered fat. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
- Fold in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix thoroughly to create a smooth, well-combined mixture.
- Transfer the beef filling into the greased baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer. Arrange the frozen tater tots over the surface in a single, uniform layer.
- Place the dish uncovered into the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the tater tots turn a golden brown and become crisp.
- Carefully remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly across the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese has fully melted.
- Optionally, scatter sliced green onions over the top for a fresh finishing touch. Serve the casserole hot, straight from the dish.
Notes
For a variation in flavor, substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken. Turkey can be used in place of beef for a leaner alternative.