Description
Tater Tot Casserole features savory ground beef, onion, and garlic in a creamy mushroom and sour cream sauce with mixed vegetables, all topped with crispy golden tater tots and melted cheddar.
It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or feeding a hungry crowd with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef, for a hearty, less greasy base
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup, for a creamy, savory sauce
- 1/2 cup sour cream, for tang and richness
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, for deep, savory flavor
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables, green beans, carrots, peas, and corn work well
- 8 ounces cheddar cheese, freshly shredded and divided
- 32 ounce bag frozen tater tots
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives, optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart, for about 6-8 minutes until no pink remains. Drain any excess fat before continuing.
- Cook the Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, stirring for 3-4 minutes until the onion softens.
- Build the Creamy Base: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, and frozen mixed vegetables until evenly combined.
- Melt Half the Cheese: Add 4 ounces of the shredded cheddar and stir for 1-2 minutes until melted and smooth, then remove the skillet from the heat.
- Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the filling rests.
- Spread the Filling: Transfer the beef mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
- Top with Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in neat rows across the entire surface.
- Bake Until Golden: Bake uncovered for 40 minutes until the tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Add the Final Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 4 ounces of cheddar over the top and bake for 5 more minutes until melted and bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes