Why You’ll Love Tater Tot Casserole Recipe
It’s an all‑in‑one meal that combines protein, starch and cheesy goodness in one dish.
The crispy tater‑tot topping adds texture and fun to a classic comfort‑food base.
It uses familiar, easy‑to‑find ingredients and comes together without fuss.
It works for a crowd (about 10 servings) or can easily serve for leftovers.
Perfect for busy weeknight meals yet still satisfying for weekend gatherings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
nonstick cooking spray
1 lb ground beef
½ tsp onion powder
¼ tsp garlic powder
salt and pepper, to taste
2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
10.5 oz cream of chicken soup (1 can)
10.5 oz condensed cheddar cheese soup (1 can)
⅓ cup sour cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
32 oz frozen tater tots
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375 °F (≈190 °C). Spray a 9×13 casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
In a large skillet coated with nonstick spray, cook and crumble the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat as needed.
Season the beef with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper and Worcestershire sauce.
Transfer the cooked, seasoned beef to the prepared casserole dish. Add the cream of chicken soup, condensed cheddar cheese soup and sour cream. Mix until well combined.
Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture. Then arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.
Bake for 35‑40 minutes. Remove the dish, then sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top and bake for an additional ~10 minutes until the cheese is melted and the tots are crisping.
Remove from oven and let it set for 5‑10 minutes. Serve and enjoy.
Servings and timing
Servings: 10
Prep time: ~15 minutes
Cook time: ~40 minutes
Total time: ~55 minutes
Variations
Use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter protein option.
Substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a slightly different flavor.
Add a layer of vegetables—such as peas, corn or green beans—into the beef mixture for extra nutrients.
For extra crunch, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the tater tops in the last 10 minutes of baking.
Make it spicy by stirring in a dash of hot sauce or some chopped green chilies into the beef mixture.
Lower‑carb version: use cauliflower tots instead of traditional tater tots.
Swap cheddar for pepper jack or a blend of cheeses to change the flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
Storage in refrigerator: After baking, allow it to cool to room temperature, cover the dish tightly and refrigerate up to 3–4 days.
To reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, or reheat larger portions in a 350 °F oven for about 15–20 minutes until hot throughout.
Freezing: Assemble the casserole (without baking), cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed.
FAQs
How do I keep the tater tots crispy on top?
Make sure the tots are placed in a single layer and baked uncovered so they crisp up. For extra crispiness, broil the casserole for 2–3 minutes at the end.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
You can use cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or even a homemade béchamel sauce as a substitute.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely. Frozen peas, corn, or green beans can be mixed into the beef layer before baking.
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free versions of the soups and ensure the tater tots are labeled gluten-free.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
Fresh potatoes can be used if par-cooked first, but they won’t give the same crispy texture. Tots are preferred for ease and crunch.
What cheese works best besides cheddar?
Monterey Jack, mozzarella, pepper jack or a Mexican blend are great alternatives depending on the flavor you want.
How long does this casserole last in the fridge?
It stays fresh in the refrigerator for 3–4 days when stored in an airtight container.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze leftover portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger baking dish or two 9×13 pans. Adjust baking time slightly if the layers are thicker.
Conclusion
Tater Tot Casserole is a reliable, crowd-pleasing dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple to prepare. Whether you’re feeding a large group, making ahead for busy nights, or just looking for an easy comfort meal, this recipe delivers cheesy, crispy-topped goodness every time. Try a variation, make it your own, and enjoy every bite.
