Cheesy Tater Casserole is a comforting and easy family favorite made with crispy tater tots, creamy sauce, and plenty of melted cheese. This hearty casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy dinners because it’s simple to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
⏱️ Recipe Details
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Bake Time: 40 minutes
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Total Time: 50 minutes
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Servings: 6
🛒 Ingredients
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1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
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1 pound ground beef
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1 small onion, chopped
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1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
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½ cup sour cream
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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Salt to taste
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½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for extra cheesiness)
🍳 Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned.
Drain excess fat.
3. Make the Creamy Mixture
In a bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, garlic powder, pepper, and salt.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly in the baking dish.
Pour the creamy soup mixture over the beef and spread evenly.
5. Add the Cheese
Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the mixture.
6. Top with Tater Tots
Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.
7. Bake
Bake for 35–40 minutes until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
8. Add Extra Cheese
Sprinkle mozzarella or extra cheddar over the top and bake for 5 more minutes until melted.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with:
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Fresh green salad
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Steamed vegetables
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Coleslaw
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Pickles for a tangy contrast
💡 Tips & Variations
Add vegetables:
Mix in corn, peas, or green beans with the beef.
Make it spicy:
Add jalapeños or chili flakes.
Chicken version:
Use shredded cooked chicken instead of beef.
Storage:
Refrigerate leftovers for 3–4 days and reheat in the oven.