The BEST Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you're a fan of comforting, one-dish meals, then this Tater Tot Casserole is for you. It’s packed with flavor, starting with a savory beef mixture, followed by creamy mushroom soup, crisp green beans, and melty cheddar cheese. The tater tots on top create the perfect crunchy finish, making it a family-friendly favorite. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, with just 10 minutes of prep time, and it bakes in under an hour, giving you more time to enjoy your meal and less time in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef (the leaner, the better)

• ½ onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 15 oz can green beans, drained

• 10.75 oz can condensed cream of mushroom soup

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 2 cups frozen tater tots

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease an 8 or 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Set aside.

2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once browned, drain the excess fat.

3. Add the diced onions to the skillet and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until the onions are translucent.

4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.

5. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Transfer the ground beef mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

7. Top with the cream of mushroom soup, followed by the green beans, and then the shredded cheddar cheese. Make sure to season the green bean layer.

8. Finish by topping everything with a layer of frozen tater tots.

9. Bake the casserole for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese has melted.

10. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 35 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a leaner version, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.

• Vegetarian: Skip the ground beef and use more vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for a vegetarian version.

• Different Vegetables: Instead of green beans, try using frozen peas, corn, or mixed vegetables for a different flavor.

• Cheese Variations: While cheddar cheese is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses.

• Spicy: Add some diced jalapeños or a bit of hot sauce to spice things up.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re starting with a cold casserole.

Can I freeze Tater Tot Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole. After assembling, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed.

What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?

You can use cream of chicken soup or cream of celery soup as a substitute for cream of mushroom soup.

Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?

Yes, fresh green beans can be used. Just make sure to blanch them before adding them to the casserole.

Can I use different toppings instead of tater tots?

While tater tots are classic, you could try using frozen hash browns or even sliced potatoes for a different twist.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is not inherently gluten-free due to the cream of mushroom soup and tater tots. You can find gluten-free versions of both to make this dish gluten-free.

How can I make the casserole more flavorful?

For extra flavor, try adding spices like paprika, garlic powder, or even some Italian seasoning. You can also add a splash of soy sauce or a bit of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, adding the tater tots in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

How do I prevent the tater tots from getting soggy?

To ensure crispy tater tots, avoid overloading the casserole with too much liquid. Drain the green beans thoroughly, and don’t add too much Worcestershire sauce or soup.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes! Just double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish. Make sure to adjust the baking time as needed, as it may take a bit longer for a larger casserole to cook through.

Conclusion

This Tater Tot Casserole is the perfect comfort food, combining crispy tater tots, savory beef, and melted cheese in a warm, satisfying dish. It’s easy to prepare and versatile enough to suit various tastes, making it an excellent option for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish, this casserole will not disappoint. Try it tonight, and enjoy a meal that's as delicious as it is easy!

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