If you’re looking for a simple, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s equal parts cozy and satisfying, this Tater Tot Casserole is exactly what you need. Crispy golden tater tots layered over creamy, cheesy goodness — it’s comfort food at its best. Even our two-year-old can’t get enough of it!
This casserole is made with easy-to-love ingredients and can fit into almost any meal plan. It’s perfect for a big family breakfast, a weeknight dinner, or a holiday potluck. Whether you call it a Tater Tot Casserole or a Tater Tot Hotdish (as we do here in the Midwest), one thing’s for sure: it’s hearty, budget-friendly, and absolutely delicious.
🧀 Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic casserole:
- 1 pound ground beef – Lean works great. You can also use sausage or turkey sausage if you want a breakfast-style version.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – Cream of chicken also works.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Or any melty cheese you love.
- 1 bag frozen tater tots
- Chives or green onions – For garnish.
💡 Optional Flavor Boosts: Add chili powder, black pepper, onion powder, or Italian seasoning while browning the meat for extra depth.
🍽️ How to Make Tater Tot Casserole
1. Prepare the meat mixture
Mince the garlic, then brown the ground beef and garlic in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook until no pink remains, but don’t overcook — it will bake further in the oven.
Remove from heat and stir in the cream of mushroom soup, seasoning with a little salt and pepper.
2. Assemble the casserole
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the meat mixture evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the meat layer.
Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top — no need to thaw them first.
3. Bake and serve
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 35–40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy and the filling is bubbly underneath.
Top with fresh chives or herbs, and serve warm straight from the oven.
💡 Tips & Variations
- Add extra seasoning: Spice up your meat mixture with chili powder, Italian seasoning, or a dash of cayenne for a mild kick.
- Make it lighter: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to cut down on fat.
- Switch up the cheese: Try mozzarella, Monterey jack, or a blend for a creamier, gooier result.
- Add veggies: Mix in frozen peas, corn, or diced bell peppers with the meat mixture for extra color and nutrition.
- Herb it up: Finish with chives, cilantro, thyme, or rosemary depending on the season.
🍳 Serving Ideas
This Tater Tot Casserole is versatile enough to shine in any meal lineup:
- As a breakfast casserole, serve it with scrambled eggs or fresh fruit.
- For dinner, pair it with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.
- At holiday gatherings, it’s the ultimate comfort-food side dish next to ham, turkey, or roast beef.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Only 5 main ingredients
✅ Budget-friendly and kid-approved
✅ Works for breakfast, brunch, or dinner
✅ Crispy, cheesy, hearty, and full of flavor
✨ Warm, comforting, and irresistibly cheesy — this Tater Tot Casserole is the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table. Whether you’re hosting family brunch or feeding a crowd, it’s a guaranteed hit every single time. 🥔🧀💛
