Easy Tater Tot Casserole Recipe for Busy Weeknights

 Tater Tot Casserole Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort Food

If you’re searching for a hearty, family-friendly meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor, look no further than this Tater Tot casserole recipe. With layers of savory ground beef, creamy sauce, and crispy golden Tater Tots, this dish is a guaranteed hit for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday pantry staples.
• One-Pan Meal: Easy preparation and minimal cleanup.
• Customizable: Add vegetables, swap proteins, or spice it up.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike!

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Ingredients for Tater Tot Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need for this easy, comforting dish:

• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 bag frozen Tater Tots (approximately 32 oz)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter

Optional toppings: diced green onions or parsley for garnish.

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How to Make Tater Tot Casserole

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the Ground Beef
   Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Stir in diced onion and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until softened. Drain any excess fat.

3. Prepare the Sauce
   In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir this mixture into the cooked beef.

4. Assemble the Casserole
   Spread the beef and sauce mixture evenly into the greased baking dish. If using vegetables, layer them on top of the beef mixture. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

5. Add the Tater Tots
   Arrange the Tater Tots in a single layer over the cheese.

6. Bake the Casserole
   Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the Tater Tots are crispy and golden.

7. Top with Cheese
   Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top. Bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.

8. Serve and Enjoy
   Let the casserole cool slightly, garnish with green onions or parsley if desired, and serve warm.

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Tips for the Best Tater Tot Casserole

• Customize the Protein: Use ground chicken, sausage, or a plant-based alternative.
• Add Veggies: Mix in frozen peas, corn, or diced bell peppers for added nutrition.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup.

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Why Tater Tot Casserole Is a Family Favorite

This dish combines rich, creamy textures with crispy, golden Tater Tots for the ultimate comfort food experience. It’s versatile, easy to make, and perfect for feeding a crowd.

Ready to try this delicious casserole? Gather your ingredients and start baking—you’re just 30 minutes away from a cozy, satisfying meal!