Classic Tater Tot Casserole

My classic tater tot casserole is one of those comfort meals I never get tired of making. It’s warm, creamy, cheesy, and loaded with crispy tater tots on top—everything I love in a cozy, family-friendly dinner. The creamy beef and mushroom base pairs perfectly with the golden, crunchy topping, making every bite satisfying and full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple, hearty, and always a crowd-pleaser. It uses everyday ingredients and comes together quickly, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights. The creamy combination of ground beef, sour cream, and cheese gives it that classic comfort food feel, while the tater tots add the perfect crunch. It’s nostalgic, filling, and incredibly easy to customize with my favorite seasonings or veggies.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 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: garlic powder, paprika, or your favorite spices

Directions

1. I preheat my oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. In a large skillet, I cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. I drain any excess grease.

3. I stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and any extra seasonings I like (a little garlic powder or paprika adds great flavor).

4. I pour the beef mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

5. I arrange the frozen tater tots on top in a single layer, covering the surface completely.

6. I bake for 30–35 minutes, until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.

7. I sprinkle the remaining cup of cheddar cheese over the top and bake for another 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. I let it rest for a few minutes before serving—it’s creamy, crunchy, and totally comforting.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 6–8 people and takes about 15 minutes to prep and 40 minutes to bake.

Variations

• Vegetable Boost: I add peas, corn, or green beans to the beef mixture for extra flavor and texture.

• Spicy Version: I mix in a pinch of cayenne or top it with jalapeño slices before baking.

• Bacon Lover’s Twist: I sprinkle cooked bacon bits on top before adding the final layer of cheese.

• Different Soup Base: I swap the cream of mushroom for cream of chicken or cream of celery for a different flavor.

• Tex-Mex Style: I add taco seasoning to the beef and top with pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot. If I want to keep the tots crispy, I reheat them in an air fryer for a few minutes. This casserole also freezes well—just assemble it without baking, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! I assemble it up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, I just add 5–10 minutes to the baking time.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely. I often swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Cheddar is classic, but I sometimes use Colby Jack or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for extra gooeyness.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, I use a gluten-free cream soup and check that my tater tots are gluten-free.

How can I make it extra crispy on top?

I bake the casserole uncovered and place it under the broiler for a minute or two at the end for perfectly crispy tots.

Conclusion

My classic tater tot casserole is the ultimate comfort dish—creamy, cheesy, and wonderfully crunchy on top. I love how easy it is to make and how it turns simple ingredients into something everyone looks forward to. Whether I’m feeding my family or bringing it to a potluck, it’s always a hit. Every bite is pure, cozy comfort in casserole form.