Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe

Are you in the mood for a warm, comforting, and family-friendly meal that’s easy to prepare? Look no further than Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef! This classic dish combines seasoned ground beef, a creamy, savory sauce, melted cheese, and crispy tater tots, making it a filling and delicious one-pan dinner. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or gatherings. This simple yet satisfying recipe is sure to become a go-to in your home. Read on for the full recipe, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips to make the perfect tater tot casserole.

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What is Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef?

Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is a hearty, layered casserole dish featuring seasoned ground beef, a creamy base made with condensed soup, melted cheese, and crispy tater tots. The combination of savory ground beef, rich sauce, and crunchy tots makes it a comfort food favorite. This recipe is easy to customize, quick to make, and ideal for feeding a crowd. It’s a classic American dish that’s beloved for its simplicity and satisfying flavors.

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Ingredients List for Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

Before you get started, gather the following ingredients to make sure everything is prepped and ready for cooking.

Basic Ingredients:

1. Ground Beef (1 lb) – Lean ground beef is preferred to reduce grease, but any ground beef will work.
2. Tater Tots (1 package, about 32 oz) – Frozen tater tots make this recipe quick and easy.
3. Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz) – Acts as a creamy base for the casserole. You can also use cream of chicken or cream of celery.
4. Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded) – Sharp cheddar adds a rich, cheesy flavor to the dish.
5. Onion (1 medium, diced) – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
6. Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – For a hint of aromatic flavor.
7. Frozen Mixed Vegetables (1 cup) – A mix of peas, carrots, and corn works well to add nutrition and color.
8. Sour Cream (½ cup) – Adds creaminess and a slight tang to the dish.
9. Worcestershire Sauce (1 tablespoon) – For extra umami and depth of flavor.
10. Salt and Pepper (to taste) – Essential seasonings to bring out the flavors.

Optional Ingredients:

1. Green Beans (1 can, drained) – A classic addition to tater tot casserole.
2. Paprika (½ teaspoon) – Adds a smoky depth and color.
3. Bacon Bits (½ cup) – For a smoky, rich flavor.
4. Green Onions (for garnish) – Fresh green onions add a pop of color and flavor.

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Substitutions and Variations

Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is incredibly versatile, so feel free to get creative! Here are some easy substitutions and variations to try.

Substitutions:

1. Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the casserole.
2. Vegetarian Option: Use a plant-based ground meat alternative and replace cream of mushroom soup with a vegetarian-friendly version.
3. Cream of Chicken Soup: If you prefer a different flavor, use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup instead of cream of mushroom.
4. Greek Yogurt: For a healthier option, substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt to maintain the creamy texture.

Variations:

1. Spicy Version: Add a can of diced green chilies or jalapeños for a spicy twist. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
2. Mexican-Style: Swap the cheddar for Mexican-blend cheese, and add taco seasoning to the ground beef for a Tex-Mex flavor. Top with salsa and sour cream before serving.
3. Loaded Tater Tot Casserole: Add crispy bacon bits, green onions, and extra cheese to turn this into a loaded baked potato-style casserole.
4. Breakfast Tater Tot Casserole: Use breakfast sausage instead of ground beef, and crack a few eggs into the mixture for a hearty breakfast casserole.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to start cooking? Here’s how to make the perfect Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef:

1. Preheat Your Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

2. Cook the Ground Beef:

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes). Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it browns. Cook until no longer pink, about 6-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Drain any excess fat.

3. Prepare the Creamy Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth. If you’re adding vegetables, fold in the frozen mixed vegetables or green beans at this stage.

4. Combine the Beef and Creamy Sauce:

Add the cooked ground beef mixture to the creamy soup mixture. Stir everything together until fully combined and evenly coated.

5. Assemble the Casserole:

Spread the beef and creamy sauce mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the beef mixture, covering the entire surface of the casserole.

6. Add the Cheese:

Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots. If desired, you can also sprinkle paprika or bacon bits on top for extra flavor.

7. Bake the Casserole:

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you want extra crispy tots, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye on it to avoid burning.

8. Let It Rest:

Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to portion out.

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How to Cook Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Cook the Ground Beef: Brown the ground beef with onions and garlic, and season with Worcestershire sauce.
2. Prepare the Sauce: Mix cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and cheese for a creamy base.
3. Combine: Stir the beef mixture into the creamy sauce and add any vegetables.
4. Assemble: Layer the beef mixture in a casserole dish, top with tater tots and cheese.
5. Bake: Bake until the tots are golden and crispy, and the cheese is bubbly.
6. Serve: Let it rest for a few minutes, then serve hot!

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Draining the Beef: Make sure to drain any excess fat from the ground beef after cooking to avoid a greasy casserole.
• Overcooking the Tater Tots: Keep an eye on the tots toward the end of baking to avoid over-browning. If using the broiler for extra crispiness, watch them closely!
• Skipping the Sour Cream: Sour cream adds richness and creaminess to the casserole. Don’t skip it unless substituting with something like Greek yogurt.
• Overcrowding the Tater Tots: Be sure to arrange the tater tots in a single layer so they crisp up evenly. Overlapping them can result in soggy tots.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is a comforting, rustic dish that’s best served straight from the oven. Here are some serving tips and ideas to elevate its presentation:

How to Serve Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef:

1. Family Style: Serve directly from the casserole dish with a large spoon, allowing everyone to scoop their portion.
2. With Sides: Pair the casserole with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Presentation Ideas for Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef:

1. Garnish with Green Onions: Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions or parsley over the top for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
2. Sour Cream Drizzle: Add a dollop of sour cream or drizzle ranch dressing over the top for an extra creamy finish.

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Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe Tips

• Make-Ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and bake as directed.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. To freeze, assemble the casserole but don’t bake it yet. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake in the oven until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Tater Tot Casserole in advance?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the

fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it with foil and refrigerate. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.

2. Can I freeze Tater Tot Casserole?

Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled, unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge, and bake as directed.

3. What vegetables can I add to the casserole?

Frozen mixed vegetables, canned green beans, peas, corn, or even broccoli make great additions to Tater Tot Casserole.

4. How long does Tater Tot Casserole last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, the casserole will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

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Conclusion

Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is a family favorite that’s simple to make, budget-friendly, and deliciously comforting. The crispy tater tots, creamy sauce, and savory beef create a perfect combination of flavors and textures. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or as a make-ahead meal, this casserole will satisfy both kids and adults alike. Try this recipe today and enjoy a warm, hearty meal that’s sure to become a household staple!

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