Cheesy Ground Beef Tater Tot Casserole – The Ultimate Comfort Food

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Cheesy Ground Beef Tater Tot Casserole – The Ultimate Comfort Food

Looking for a hearty, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s easy to make and irresistibly satisfying? This Cheesy Ground Beef Tater Tot Casserole has it all—savory beef, a rich creamy sauce, golden crispy tater tots, and plenty of melted cheese. It’s the kind of cozy, satisfying meal that everyone at the table will love, from picky eaters to hungry adults.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef – The flavorful, meaty foundation of this dish.
  • 1 small onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced – Brings aromatic intensity.
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – Creamy richness in every bite.
  • 1/2 cup sour cream – For tang and smoothness.
  • 1/4 cup milk – Helps create a pourable, velvety sauce.
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami and depth.
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided – Melted, gooey perfection.
  • 1 (28–32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
  • Chopped parsley (optional) – For a pop of color and freshness.

How to Make It

1. Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Drain excess fat.

2. Sauté Aromatics

Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, until onions are soft and translucent.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix until smooth and evenly combined.

4. Assemble the Casserole

Spread the beef and sauce mixture in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

5. Add the Tater Tots

Arrange the frozen tater tots over the mixture in a single layer.

6. Bake Until Golden

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes, until the tater tots are crispy and golden.

7. Add More Cheese and Finish Baking

Remove the casserole, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Garnish and Serve

Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Why You’ll Love This Casserole

  • Easy Weeknight Dinner – Made with simple pantry staples.
  • Family Favorite – Kids love the crispy tater tots and cheesy goodness.
  • Customizable – Adapt to your tastes with simple variations.
  • Great for Leftovers – Just as delicious the next day!

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