Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef
A comforting and easy meal combining hearty ingredients like ground beef and cheese with crispy tater tots, perfect for busy weeknight dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef Use lean ground beef for less fat.
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 small onion, diced Finely diced for even cooking.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided Reserve half for topping.
- 1 bag frozen tater tots (32 oz)
- Salt and pepper, to taste Adjust according to preference.
- Optional seasonings: garlic powder, paprika, or any favorite spices Customize to taste.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Add diced onions and cook until they soften. Season with salt, pepper, and any optional spices. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream, mixing well with the beef. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Grease a casserole dish and spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.
- Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and top with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, try using different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack. Feel free to add vegetables like peas or corn for some extra nutrition. If you want a spicier kick, include diced jalapeños or sprinkle some chili powder in the beef mixture. To store, cover tightly and refrigerate for 3-4 days or freeze for 2-3 months.
