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Top-down view of a golden, cheesy tater tot casserole baked in a white rectangular dish, with crispy tater tots arranged neatly on top and melted cheddar cheese bubbling between layers of ground beef and creamy sauce. The dish rests on a rustic wooden table with a serving spoon beside it.

Simple and Delicious Tater Tot Casserole

This Simple and Delicious Tater Tot Casserole is a cozy, cheesy, and crowd‑pleasing weeknight classic. With savory ground beef, creamy sauce, and a crispy layer of tater tots, it’s one of those comforting recipes that never disappoints.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 540
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef lean
  • 1 onion small, diced (optional)
  • 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup or cream of chicken
  • 1 cup sour cream full‑fat for best texture
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese sharp for extra flavor
  • 32 oz frozen tater tots one standard package
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables optional (peas, carrots)

Equipment

  • 9×13 Baking Dish
  • Skillet

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13‑inch baking dish and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef and diced onion until no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. In a bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until well combined. Fold in frozen vegetables if using.
  4. Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top, pressing gently into the mixture.
  5. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the tater tots. Bake for 35–40 minutes until tots are golden brown and cheese is bubbly.
  6. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving so the casserole holds its shape. Slice and enjoy!

Notes

For extra crispiness, broil the casserole for the last 1–2 minutes (watch carefully). Swap ground turkey for a leaner option or add ranch seasoning for extra flavor. The casserole can be assembled ahead and chilled up to 24 hours before baking.