Tater Tot Casserole is a simple, comforting, and satisfying dish that comes together with just a few basic ingredients. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at the dinner table.
Ingredients
Servings: 4
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 (16-ounce) package frozen tater tots
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches
Instructions
Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 40 mins | Total Time: 45 mins
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gather all the ingredients.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
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In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbly (about 7 to 10 minutes). Drain excess grease if necessary. Stir in the condensed cream of mushroom soup and season with salt and black pepper.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
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Transfer the beef mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Evenly layer the frozen tater tots on top, then sprinkle with shredded Cheddar cheese.
Step 4: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
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Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
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Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- Freezing: Assemble the casserole but do not bake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 4 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and add extra baking time as needed.
Variations and Tips
- Add chopped onions, bell peppers, or mixed vegetables for extra flavor.
- Swap the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of onion for a different taste.
- Use mozzarella, pepper jack, or a cheese blend instead of Cheddar.
- Top with crispy fried onions in the last 5 minutes of baking for added crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of soup?
A: Yes! You can substitute cream of mushroom with cream of chicken, cream of celery, or even a can of beef gravy for a different flavor.
2. Do I need to thaw the tater tots before baking?
A: No, the tater tots should go in frozen. This helps them stay crispy as they bake.
3. Can I bake this casserole from frozen?
A: Yes, but you will need to add extra baking time. If baking straight from frozen, increase the bake time by about 15 to 20 minutes.
4. What can I add to make it a complete meal?
A: You can mix in canned or frozen vegetables like green beans, corn, or peas to make this dish more nutritious and well-rounded.
5. Can I make this in a skillet instead of a baking dish?
A: Yes! If using an oven-safe skillet, you can cook the ground beef, add the soup and toppings, and bake everything in the same pan.