🥘 Classic Tater Tot Casserole (a.k.a. “Tater Tot Hotdish”)
Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 40 min
Ingredients:
-
1 lb (450 g) ground beef
-
1 small onion, diced
-
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
-
½ cup milk
-
2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, or green beans)
-
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
-
1 bag (about 32 oz) frozen tater tots
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
-
Optional: garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, or a pinch of cayenne for flavor
Instructions:
-
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
-
Cook the beef:
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened. Drain excess grease. -
Make the filling:
Stir in the soup, milk, and frozen vegetables. Add salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings to taste. Mix in 1 cup of the shredded cheese. -
Assemble:
Spread the beef mixture evenly in the baking dish.
Arrange tater tots in a single layer on top (neat rows or just scattered — your call!). -
Bake:
Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the tater tots are crispy and golden brown. -
Add cheese & finish:
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese over the top and bake for another 5–10 minutes, until melted and bubbly. -
Serve:
Let rest for 5 minutes, then scoop and enjoy!
Variations:
-
🐔 Chicken Tater Tot Casserole: Swap beef for cooked shredded chicken and use cream of chicken soup.
-
🧄 Loaded Style: Add bacon bits, green onions, and drizzle with ranch before serving.
-
🌽 Tex-Mex: Mix in taco seasoning and top with pepper jack cheese. Serve with salsa and sour cream.
-
🥦 Healthier version: Use ground turkey, reduced-fat cheese, and low-sodium soup.
Would you like me to give you a from-scratch version (no canned soup) or a “loaded” version with bacon, sour cream, and cheddar next?
