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Best Tater Tot Casserole

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The ultimate Best Tater Tot Casserole, with layers of savory, seasoned meat and vegetables topped by crispy tater tots and melted cheese. A soul-warming dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: undefined
  • Total Time: approximately 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6–8 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking, Stir-frying
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 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

Instructions

  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.

Notes

  • 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.
  • For storage, keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes until piping hot and crispy on top.

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