Description
This Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is a comforting and easy-to-make dish featuring savory browned ground beef mixed with creamy mushroom sauce, topped with melted cheddar cheese and crispy baked tater tots. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, this casserole combines rich flavors and satisfying textures that will please the whole family.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional seasonings: garlic powder, paprika, or any favorite spices
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare it for baking the casserole.
- Cook the ground beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Add the diced onions and cook until softened. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices like garlic powder or paprika. Drain any excess fat to avoid greasiness.
- Combine with cream sauce: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream with the beef mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through and blend the flavors.
- Layer in the casserole dish: Grease a casserole dish lightly to prevent sticking. Spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish to form the first layer.
- Add cheese layer: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef mixture, creating a creamy, cheesy layer.
- Add tater tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese layer. This will create a crispy golden topping once baked.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy on top.
- Add final cheese layer: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the tater tots. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving to let it set slightly for easier slicing and serving.
Notes
- Optional garnishes: Add chopped parsley or green onions on top for a fresh, colorful touch.
- Make it a full meal: Serve alongside a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner.