🇺🇸 USA · Food
Hearty Tater Tot Casserole
By eatmundo · July 5, 2026
🇺🇸 USA beloved Midwestern comfort food, this casserole layers seasoned ground beef with a creamy mushroom sauce, topped with crispy golden tater tots and melted cheese. It's a satisfying, easy-to-make dish perfect for family dinners on chilly evenings.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brown 1 pound ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- 2
Stir in 1 chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Season the beef mixture with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste.
- 3
In the same skillet, stir in one 10.5-ounce can of cream of mushroom soup and 1/2 cup milk. Bring to a simmer, then remove from heat.
- 4
Pour the beef and soup mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Evenly spread 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
- 5
Arrange a single layer of frozen tater tots over the cheese.
- 6
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy and the casserole is bubbly. Let stand for a few minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of ground beef is best for Hearty Tater Tot Casserole?+
Lean ground beef (85-90%) is ideal to prevent a greasy casserole. If using higher fat content, drain the excess fat thoroughly after browning.
How can I ensure the tater tots in the casserole get crispy and not soggy?+
Bake the casserole uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes to allow the tater tots to brown and crisp up properly. Arrange them in a single layer on top for even crisping.
How do I know when the Hearty Tater Tot Casserole is fully cooked?+
The casserole is done when the internal mixture is bubbling around the edges, the beef is heated through, and the tater tots on top are golden brown and crispy, typically after 30-40 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup in this casserole?+
Yes, you can use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a similar creamy base. For a homemade alternative, a béchamel sauce with added sautéed mushrooms works well.
🇺🇸 USMundo Match
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