Best Tater Tot Casserole

I’ve crafted the ultimate Best Tater Tot Casserole—a comforting, hearty dish with ground meat and veggies topped by crispy tater tots and melted cheese. It’s soul-warming and ideal for family dinners or potlucks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I adore how this casserole layers savory, seasoned meat and vegetables beneath a golden blanket of tater tots and gooey cheese. It’s easy to prep, fuss-free to bake, and delivers maximum comfort in every forkful.

Ingredients

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

• Ground beef (or turkey)

• Onion, finely chopped

• Garlic, minced

• Bell pepper, diced (optional)

• Frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn) or fresh

• Cream of mushroom or chicken soup (or homemade)

• Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess)

• Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce (optional)

• Salt and black pepper

• Tater tots (frozen)

• Shredded cheddar cheese (or blend of your choice)

• Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or green onions

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375 °F (190 °C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat with chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper (if using) until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat.

3. Stir in the mixed vegetables, soup, and sour cream (if using). Season with Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Heat until everything is well combined and warmed through.

4. Transfer the meat and veggie mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer.

5. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer across the top.

6. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until tater tots are golden and heated through.

7. Remove the casserole, sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the tots, and return to the oven for 5–7 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Let rest for a few minutes, then garnish with parsley or green onions before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves about 6–8.

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook filling: 10 minutes

• Bake time: 25–30 minutes plus cheese melt (5–7 minutes)

• Total time: approximately 50 minutes

Variations

• Protein swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or pork instead of beef.

• Sauce twist: Substitute cream soup with cream cheese thinned with milk or homemade cream sauce.

• Spicy kick: Stir in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the filling.

• Veggie-packed: Add mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for more nutrition.

• Tater tot upgrade: Mix sweet potato tots or add a sprinkle of seasoned salt before baking.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm individual portions in a 350 °F oven for about 10–12 minutes until piping hot and crispy on top. Reheating in the microwave works too, though the tots soften.

FAQs

Can I assemble this ahead of time?

Yes—I make the filling, layer it, cover, and refrigerate up to 8 hours before topping with tots and baking.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Absolutely—I freeze the fully cooled casserole (without cheese) tightly covered for up to 2 months. To bake, I thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed, adding cheese at the end.

Do I have to use cream soup?

No—homemade is easy! I whisk together equal parts milk and cream cheese or béchamel for a creamy base instead.

How can I make it gluten-free?

I use gluten-free cream soup (or homemade), check seasonings, and ensure the tater tots are labeled gluten-free.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes—I omit meat and add more veggies or cooked lentils. I often use vegetable broth and omit Worcestershire unless using a vegan version.

Conclusion

This Best Tater Tot Casserole is a cozy, crowd-pleasing go-to that’s straightforward, adaptable, and endlessly comforting. I love how it brings together simple ingredients into a fun, hearty meal. Whether for weeknight dinner or a party dish, it never disappoints!