Name: Tater Tot Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, or green beans); 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup); 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is a complete meal in one dish—protein, veggies, and crispy potatoes all baked together. It’s budget-friendly, easy to assemble, and can be customized with different meats, sauces, or toppings. The golden tater tots on top add the perfect crunch, while the creamy filling keeps every bite flavorful. It’s a nostalgic recipe that both kids and adults love.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef or ground turkey
Onion, chopped
Garlic, minced
Frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, or green beans)
Cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
Milk
Salt and pepper, to taste
Shredded cheddar cheese
Frozen tater tots

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a skillet, cook ground beef with onion and garlic until browned. Drain excess grease.
Stir in the mixed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper.
Spread the beef mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
Arrange the tater tots in a single layer on top.
Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
Serve hot, straight from the baking dish.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6–8 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

Use ground turkey, chicken, or sausage instead of beef.
Add jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Swap the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or a homemade béchamel sauce.
Use sweet potato tots for a twist on the classic.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through for best results, or microwave in 1-minute intervals. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months—cover tightly with foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Yes, but blanch them briefly before adding to ensure they soften during baking.

Do I have to use cream of mushroom soup?

No, cream of chicken or cream of celery also work well, or you can make your own sauce.

Can I make this casserole without cheese?

Yes, the cheese adds flavor, but you can omit it if preferred.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Absolutely—just use a larger baking dish or two 9×13 pans.

How do I make the top extra crispy?

Bake uncovered and broil for the last 2–3 minutes if you want the tater tots extra golden.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

What sides go well with tater tot casserole?

It’s a complete meal on its own but pairs nicely with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.

Can I use shredded hash browns instead of tater tots?

Yes, but the texture will be different. Tater tots give the casserole its signature crunch.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The filling should be bubbly, and the tater tots golden brown and crisp on top.

Conclusion

Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy, savory filling with crispy golden tots. It’s simple to prepare, customizable with different ingredients, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal, this casserole is sure to become a staple at your table.