Experience the ultimate comfort food with our delicious Tater Tot Casserole – a hearty and incredibly satisfying ground beef and vegetable dinner crowned with perfectly crispy tater tots. This iconic dish is a beloved family favorite for a reason, promising a flavorful and filling meal that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

The Ultimate Tater Tot Casserole: A Hearty & Easy Family Dinner

There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting casserole to bring the family together, and this Tater Tot Casserole stands out as a true champion. Ready in just over an hour, this savory dish embodies everything we love about classic comfort food: it’s rich, creamy, packed with flavor, and topped with those irresistibly golden and crunchy tater tots. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a nostalgic experience that promises full bellies and happy faces around the dinner table.

Why This Tater Tot Casserole Will Become Your New Favorite

This isn’t just another dinner recipe; it’s a culinary hug in a dish! Here’s why our Tater Tot Casserole deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation:

• Effortless Preparation: With straightforward steps and readily available ingredients, even beginner cooks can achieve impressive results. Most of the prep involves simple browning and stirring before baking.
• A Complete Meal in One Pan: Forget about juggling multiple side dishes. This casserole combines protein, vegetables, and potatoes into a single, satisfying serving. Less cooking, less fuss, and significantly fewer dishes to wash at the end of the night – a win-win for busy weeknights!
• Unbeatable Comfort: The creamy, cheesy ground beef and vegetable base, paired with the crispy potato topping, creates a textural and flavor combination that defines comfort. It’s the perfect meal for chilly evenings or whenever you need a little extra warmth.
• Customizable for Every Palate: From swapping meats and cheeses to incorporating your favorite vegetables, this recipe is incredibly forgiving and adaptable. It’s easy to adjust to dietary preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike will rave about this dish. The familiar flavors and fun tater tot topping make it an instant hit, even with picky eaters.

The Beloved History of Tater Tot Casserole (aka Hotdish)

While known nationwide as Tater Tot Casserole, in the Midwest, this hearty dish often goes by a different, equally endearing name: “Hotdish.” Hotdishes are a staple of potlucks, family gatherings, and church suppers across states like Minnesota and North Dakota. Originating in the mid-20th century, these casseroles became popular for their affordability, ease of preparation, and ability to feed a crowd. Tater Tots themselves were invented by the American frozen food company Ore-Ida in 1953, and it wasn’t long before these crispy potato gems found their way onto a bed of creamy ground meat and vegetables, forever cementing their place in American comfort food history. Our recipe celebrates this tradition, offering a modern take on a timeless classic that continues to warm hearts and bellies.

Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Casserole

Crafting the perfect Tater Tot Casserole starts with a selection of simple, yet impactful ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the rich flavors and satisfying textures that make this dish so irresistible.

• Lean Ground Beef: The foundation of our casserole. Using lean ground beef helps minimize excess grease, ensuring a cleaner, less oily finished product. Feel free to opt for an 80/20 or 90/10 blend for the best balance of flavor and texture.
• Small Onion (diced): Adds a crucial aromatic depth and sweetness to the savory beef base. Dicing it finely ensures it blends seamlessly into the mixture.
• Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: The fundamental seasonings that enhance all other flavors. Adjust to your personal taste.
• Garlic Cloves (minced): Provides a pungent, fragrant kick that elevates the entire dish. Freshly minced garlic offers the best flavor.
• Frozen Mixed Vegetables: A convenient way to incorporate essential nutrients and color. The medley often includes peas, carrots, corn, and green beans, adding texture and sweetness.
• Condensed Cheddar Soup: The secret to the casserole’s luscious, creamy texture and cheesy flavor. This condensed soup acts as a binder and flavor booster. If you can’t find cheddar, don’t worry, we have substitution tips below!
• Sour Cream: Adds a delightful tang and extra creaminess, balancing the richness of the cheese and meat. It contributes to a wonderfully smooth sauce.
• Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The star of the show for its sharp, bold flavor that melts beautifully throughout the casserole and forms a tempting crust on top.
• Frozen Tater Tots: The crowning glory! These crispy potato nuggets bake up golden brown, providing a fantastic textural contrast to the soft, creamy filling below.

How to Make the Perfect Tater Tot Casserole: Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these simple instructions to create a show-stopping Tater Tot Casserole that will delight everyone at your table.

1. Prepare Your Workspace: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking. Set it aside for later.
2. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet with deep sides or a Dutch oven, place the lean ground beef over medium heat. Break up the beef into small crumbles using a spoon or spatula. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all the pink has disappeared and the beef is thoroughly browned. This step is crucial for developing flavor. Once cooked, carefully drain any excess grease from the pan to avoid a greasy casserole.




3. Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onions, kosher salt, and black pepper to the browned beef in the pot. Continue to cook over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions have softened and become translucent. This mellows their flavor and releases their sweetness.




4. Infuse with Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, or just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.




5. Combine Base Ingredients: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, condensed cheddar soup, sour cream, and half of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix everything thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is evenly creamy.




6. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the flavorful filling into your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle the remaining half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the filling.




7. Add the Tater Tots: Arrange an even layer of frozen tater tots on top of the cheese layer. Ensure they are spread in a single layer for optimal crispiness. You might have a few tater tots left over, depending on the size of your bag.




8. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes. The casserole is ready when the filling is bubbly, the cheese is melted and golden, and the tater tots are beautifully golden brown and crispy.




9. Serve Immediately: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese to set slightly. Then, scoop generously and serve while hot!

Tips for Tater Tot Casserole Success

While this recipe is incredibly forgiving, a few expert tips can elevate your Tater Tot Casserole from good to extraordinary:

• Don’t Skimp on Draining: After browning your ground beef, thoroughly drain any accumulated grease. Excess fat can make the casserole watery and less flavorful.
• Crispy Tots are Key: For the crispiest tater tots, ensure they are arranged in a single, even layer on top. Avoid overlapping, which can lead to soggy spots. Baking uncovered also helps them crisp up.
• Flavor Boosters: Don’t be shy with seasonings! A pinch of onion powder, garlic powder, or even a dash of Worcestershire sauce can add extra depth to the beef mixture.
• Creamier Casserole: If you prefer a richer, creamier base, consider adding a second can of condensed soup or a little extra sour cream. Adjust consistency with a splash of milk if needed.
• Cheese Matters: While sharp cheddar is recommended for its robust flavor, experiment with other cheeses. Grating your own cheese often melts smoother than pre-shredded varieties, which can contain anti-caking agents.
• Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after it comes out of the oven helps the filling set, making it easier to scoop and serve without it falling apart.

Delicious Variations & Substitutions

One of the best things about Tater Tot Casserole is its incredible versatility. Feel free to experiment with these ideas to customize it to your liking:

• Protein Power-Ups: Not a fan of ground beef? This casserole is wonderfully forgiving! Swap it out for ground chicken, ground turkey, or even ground pork. For an extra savory kick, try using bulk sausage (breakfast or Italian) – just adjust seasonings as needed.
• Vegetable Medley: The frozen mixed vegetables are convenient, but you have endless options!
  • Frozen Alternatives: Try individual bags of frozen peas, green beans, corn, or a blend of peas and carrots.
  • Canned Options: If using canned vegetables, be sure to drain them thoroughly before adding to prevent a watery casserole. Use the same quantity as frozen.
  • Fresh Veggies: Sauté finely diced carrots, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach along with the onions for a boost of fresh flavor and nutrition. Cook them until tender-crisp before mixing.
• Soup Swaps: If you can’t find condensed cheddar soup or prefer a different flavor profile, simply substitute it with another “cream of” soup. Cream of mushroom, cream of chicken, or cream of celery soup all work beautifully and will still provide that rich, creamy base.
• Cheese, Please!: While sharp cheddar is a classic, don’t hesitate to explore other cheesy possibilities:
  • Mild & Melty: Mozzarella or Colby Jack will offer a milder flavor and excellent melt.
  • Zesty & Bold: Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can add a subtle kick and creamy texture.
  • Blend it Up: A mix of cheeses, like cheddar and Monterey Jack, can offer a more complex flavor.
• Extra Add-ins: Consider stirring in a can of drained green chilies for a hint of heat, a dash of hot sauce, or even some cooked, crumbled bacon bits into the beef mixture for added smoky flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Your Casserole

While Tater Tot Casserole is a complete meal on its own, it pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides to round out your dinner. For a lighter touch, a crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole. Steamed green beans or a side of roasted asparagus can also add a fresh element. For heartier appetites, a side of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any extra creamy sauce. And don’t forget a tall glass of iced tea or your favorite beverage to complete the meal!

Make Ahead & Storage Instructions

This casserole is fantastic for meal prep and handling leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

• Storing Leftovers: Any leftover Tater Tot Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Always use freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in foil and then plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
• Reheating:
  • Oven: For best results and to help regain some crispiness in the tater tots, reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through. Cover the casserole with foil for the first part of reheating to prevent it from drying out, then remove the foil for the last 10-15 minutes to crisp up the tots.
  • Microwave: While quicker, reheating in the microwave may cause the tater tots to become slightly soggy. Heat individual servings on a microwave-safe plate until hot.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole (without the tater tots) up to a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add the frozen tater tots right before placing it in the oven. You may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.

Tater Tot Casserole

This Tater Tot Casserole is a filling, comforting, creamy dish that warms your soul!

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 55 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Servings: 8 servings

Author: Brandie Skibinski

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 small onion, small diced
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 12 ounces frozen mixed vegetables
• 10.5 ounce can condensed cheddar soup
• ½ cup sour cream
• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 32 ounce bag frozen tater tots

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
2. In a large skillet with deep sides or a Dutch oven, over medium heat, add the ground beef. Break it up into crumbles and cook until there is no pink left, about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally. Drain any excess grease.
3. Add the onions, salt, and pepper to the pot and stir occasionally until they are softened, 8-10 minutes. Add the garlic and stir it in; cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the frozen vegetables, condensed cheddar soup, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until well combined.
5. Place the filling into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese.
6. Add an even layer of the tater tots on top. You may have a few leftover depending on the bag size.
7. Bake for 35-45 minutes until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the filling is bubbly. Serve immediately.

Notes

• You can use any cream of “something” soup you prefer. We used cheddar soup to make this dish extra cheesy!
• Don’t have frozen mixed veggies? You can swap them with any frozen or canned vegetables you like (peas, carrots, green beans, or corn). Just be sure to drain canned veggies thoroughly.
• For other cheese options, feel free to use Mozzarella, Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack.
• Feel free to use ground chicken, ground turkey, or ground pork in place of the ground beef.
• If you want this casserole to be even creamier, add two cans of condensed soup.

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Calories: 528kcal | Carbohydrates: 42g | Protein: 27g | Fat: 29g | Sodium: 1332mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 2g

Nutritional Disclaimer

“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.

Craving More Tater Tot & Comfort Food Recipes?

If you’ve fallen in love with the versatility and deliciousness of tater tots, or simply can’t get enough of comforting casseroles, we have plenty more ideas to inspire your next meal. Explore these other fantastic recipes that feature crispy tots and heartwarming flavors:

• Crock Pot Chicken Tater Tot Casserole
• Tater Tot Enchilada Bake
• Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole
• Tater Tot Chicken Pot Pie
• Tachos (Tater Tot Nachos)
• Shepherd’s Pie Tater Tot Casserole
• Poppy Seed Chicken
• Jalapeño Popper Tater Tot Chicken Casserole
• Loaded Tater Tot Cups
• Shepherd’s Pie
• 30 Comforting Casseroles