Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef
This Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is a comforting, hearty classic! Crispy tots, savory beef, and creamy mushroom soup come together for an easy, delicious meal.
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion chopped
- 1 bell pepper chopped
- 2 cups frozen tater tots
- 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup 1 can
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready once the casserole is assembled.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Vegetables
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Base
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well blended.
Step 4: Combine Beef and Soup Mixture
- Pour the creamy mixture over the cooked beef and vegetables in the skillet. Stir until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
- Transfer the beef mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, then layer the frozen tater tots evenly across the cheese.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven mitts
Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
- Try swapping cheddar for mozzarella or Monterey Jack for different cheese flavor and melt.
- Add extra vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or peas by sautéing them with the onions and peppers.
- Prepare the casserole up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate before baking.
- Freeze the casserole before baking for up to 2 months; bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
