Ultimate Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole

Name: Ultimate Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs ground beef; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 10 oz condensed cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup sour cream; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives; 4 cups frozen tater tots; 1 tbsp olive oil

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook: 45 min

🍽 Serves: 6

★★★★★

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If you're on the hunt for the perfect comfort food, this Ultimate Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole is about to become your new go-to dish. It's got layers of savory goodness and a crispy, cheesy top that's just irresistible. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in!

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Ingredients for Ultimate Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole

The heart of this dish starts with ground beef, providing a hearty and protein-rich base. Onions and garlic are sautéed to add a savory depth. A sprinkle of salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika elevates the flavor profile, giving it a subtle smokiness. The condensed cream of mushroom soup and sour cream combine to create a luscious, creamy sauce that envelops the beef. Sharp cheddar cheese is added for its bold flavor, melting beautifully to create that gooey layer we all crave. Fresh chives are the perfect garnish, adding a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Finally, frozen tater tots crown the dish, baking to a golden crispness that provides the perfect textural contrast. A dash of olive oil helps in sautéing the onions and garlic to perfection.

Tips & Tricks

If you prefer, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Consider adding a cup of frozen peas or corn to the beef mixture for extra veggies.
Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes after baking; it helps the layers set and makes serving easier.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, balancing the richness with a fresh crunch. You could also serve it alongside steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for added nutrition. For a true comfort meal, some warm, crusty bread would be perfect for soaking up any creamy sauce left on your plate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?: Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture and layer it in the dish. Cover and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. Add the cheese and tater tots just before baking.
Can I freeze leftovers?: Yes, you can freeze any leftovers. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Ultimate Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that's warming up, grab a large skillet and heat up a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced onions and minced garlic, giving them a good stir until they turn translucent, which takes about 5 minutes.

Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and cook until it's nicely browned. Season the beef with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika, making sure everything is well mixed. This step locks in that smoky, savory essence.

Reduce the heat a bit and stir in the condensed cream of mushroom soup along with the sour cream. Mix until you have a smooth, creamy consistency. Pour this beefy mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Now for the cheesy goodness. Sprinkle half of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the beef layer. This will melt beautifully beneath the tater tots.

Arrange the tater tots in a single layer over the cheese. It might seem tempting to just dump them all on, but trust me, a single layer ensures they all get crispy and golden.

Pop the dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 35 minutes. You’re looking for those tater tots to be golden brown and crispy.

Once they’re perfect, carefully take the casserole out and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and freshly chopped chives on top. Slide it back into the oven for an additional 10 minutes, just until the cheese is bubbly and irresistible.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare and bakes in under an hour.
Perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and crispy textures.
Kid-friendly and a hit at potlucks.
Easy to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins.

Ingredients

1.5 lbs ground beef

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1 tsp smoked paprika

10 oz condensed cream of mushroom soup

1 cup sour cream

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/4 cup chopped fresh chives

4 cups frozen tater tots

1 tbsp olive oil

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and garlic, sauté until translucent.

3. Add ground beef to the skillet and brown thoroughly, seasoning with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

4. Stir in the condensed cream of mushroom soup and sour cream, mixing until well combined.

5. Spread the beef mixture evenly in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.

6. Sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.

7. Arrange the tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.

9. Remove from oven, sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese and chopped chives over the top, then return to oven for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly.

10. Serve hot and enjoy!

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