Go Back

Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole

Comfort food enthusiasts, get ready to fall head over heels for this Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole. It's the perfect blend of crispy tots, savory ground beef (or turkey), and gooey cheese that will make your taste buds dance. Ideal for busy weeknights, this casserole transforms simple ingredients into a warm, crowd-pleasing meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 485
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
  • 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • ½ teaspoon paprika optional, for color
  • 2 green onions, sliced optional, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your casserole won’t stick and will heat evenly.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown 1 pound of ground beef (or turkey) with 1 small diced onion until no pink remains, then drain the excess grease.
  3. Add 2 minced garlic cloves to the skillet and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the 10.5 oz can of cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup of sour cream, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and half of the 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, mixing well to combine.
  5. Season the mixture with ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon paprika (if using).
  6. Spread the meat and sauce mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, then arrange the frozen 32 oz tater tots in a single layer on top.
  7. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and the edges are bubbling with cheesy goodness.

Notes

This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights and can be easily customized, such as substituting ground turkey for beef or using dairy-free alternatives for sour cream and cheese. It can be made ahead and refrigerated until ready to bake. Serve with a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a balanced and comforting meal.