Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

Nothing beats a hearty, comforting meal on a busy weeknight, and this tater tot casserole with ground beef fits the bill perfectly. Crispy golden tater tots layered over a savory ground beef filling create a dish that’s satisfying, flavorful, and sure to please the whole family. It’s one of those meals that somehow feels both nostalgic and fresh at the same time.

The beauty of this recipe is how simple it is to pull together without sacrificing flavor. The ground beef is cooked with onions, garlic, and a touch of seasoning, making it rich and savory. When combined with a creamy sauce and topped with perfectly crisp tater tots, it turns into a one-pan meal that’s equal parts convenience and comfort.

Even if you’ve never made a ground beef casserole before, this easy tater tot casserole with ground beef is approachable and forgiving. You can tweak the veggies, adjust the seasonings, or even add a layer of cheese to suit your family’s taste. The tater tots on top provide the perfect crunch, sealing in all the flavors beneath.

This dish also doubles as a great make-ahead option. You can assemble it a day in advance and bake it right before dinner, making weeknight meals feel much less stressful. Between the crispy topping, the savory meat layer, and the creamy sauce, it’s no wonder this casserole has become a go-to favorite for families everywhere.

Why You’ll Love It

• One-pan wonder – Everything cooks together in a single dish, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
• Kid-approved comfort – Crispy tater tots on top and savory ground beef underneath make this casserole a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Customizable flavors – You can sneak in veggies, add cheese, or spice it up without losing the classic tater tot casserole charm.
• Make-ahead friendly – Assemble it in advance and bake when ready, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
• Ultimate cozy dinner – Warm, hearty, and filling, this casserole hits all the comfort-food notes without being complicated.

Ingredient List

For the Ground Beef Layer:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional)

For the Sauce:

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup milk

For the Tater Tot Topping:

• 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra cheesy topping)

Ingredient Notes

• I always use full-fat sour cream for the sauce—it makes the casserole creamy and rich.
• Don’t skip the paprika in the ground beef—it adds subtle depth and warmth.
• I love using frozen mixed vegetables like peas, carrots, and corn; it’s an easy way to sneak in some color and nutrition.
• Shredded cheddar cheese on top? Totally optional but highly recommended—it melts beautifully and gives that extra gooey, golden finish.
• For the tater tots, I stick with Crispy brand if I can get it—it browns so nicely and stays crunchy longer.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet – For browning the ground beef and cooking the onions; I love using my nonstick one for easy cleanup.
• Mixing bowl – To combine the sauce ingredients quickly and evenly.
• 9×13-inch baking dish – Perfect size for layering the casserole; I use a glass dish so I can see the layers.
• Spatula or wooden spoon – For stirring the beef and veggies without scratching your pan.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For accuracy with sauces and seasonings.
• Oven mitts – Essential for safely handling the hot baking dish!

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or nonstick spray.
• Lay out your tater tots so they’re ready to top the casserole later.
  Pro Tip: Greasing the dish ensures the cheesy, saucy layers won’t stick to the bottom.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the ground beef and cook until it starts to brown, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
• Stir in the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent.
• Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  Pro Tip: Don’t drain all the fat—leave a tablespoon for flavor, it helps the veggies taste richer.

3. Add Vegetables (Optional)

• Stir in your frozen mixed vegetables if using.
• Cook for 3–4 minutes until they’re slightly tender but still vibrant.

4. Make the Creamy Sauce

• In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk.
• Whisk together until smooth and creamy.
  Pro Tip: Whisk continuously to prevent lumps and make a silky sauce that blends perfectly with the beef.

5. Assemble the Casserole

• Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly in the greased baking dish.
• Pour the creamy sauce over the beef and veggies, spreading it gently with a spatula.
• Arrange the tater tots in a single layer on top.
• Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese over the tots if desired.
  Pro Tip: Make sure the tater tots aren’t stacked—they brown better in a single layer.

6. Bake to Perfection

• Place the casserole in the preheated oven.
• Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
• For an extra crispy topping, switch to broil for the last 2–3 minutes, watching closely so it doesn’t burn.

7. Serve and Enjoy

• Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving—it helps everything set nicely.
• Scoop generous portions onto plates and enjoy warm, cheesy bites of comfort.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Crispy tater tots are key – Arrange them in a single layer and don’t overcrowd the pan to get that golden crunch.
• Don’t overcook the beef – Slightly undercooking the ground beef before adding the sauce keeps it juicy.
• Let it rest – Giving the casserole 5 minutes after baking helps the layers set, making it easier to serve.
• Use fresh cheese – Shredded blocks melt better than pre-shredded bags and make your casserole creamier.
• Season carefully – Taste the beef mixture before adding the sauce to ensure it’s flavorful enough for the whole dish.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Use cream of chicken soup instead of mushroom for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Try sweet potato tater tots for a fun twist and extra nutrients.
• Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture for extra veggies.
• Sprinkle Parmesan or mozzarella on top instead of cheddar for a different cheesy experience.
• For a spicy kick, mix in 1 tsp chili powder or hot sauce into the ground beef layer.

Serving Suggestions

• I love serving this tater tot casserole with a crisp green salad—it balances the richness perfectly!
• Pair it with steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus for a simple, veggie-packed side.
• A side of buttery dinner rolls or garlic bread makes every bite even more indulgent.
• Top individual servings with a spoonful of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a fresh, creamy finish.
• For game nights or casual dinners, serve alongside pickles or a tangy coleslaw for a little extra crunch and flavor contrast.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigerate leftovers – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze for later – Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat in the oven – Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until warmed through.
• Quick microwave option – Heat individual portions on high for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating.
• Crispy topping trick – If reheating in the oven, remove foil in the last 5 minutes to bring back that golden tater tot crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. Bake it fresh the next day for best results.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works well. Just season it a little more since turkey is milder than beef.

How do I keep the tater tots crispy?

Arrange them in a single layer on top and avoid covering the casserole with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking. Broiling for a couple of minutes at the end also helps.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Definitely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or even corn mix in perfectly. Just sauté them slightly with the beef first for the best flavor.

How long does leftover casserole last?

Refrigerated leftovers last about 3–4 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight before reheating.

Can I make it spicy?

Yes! Add a pinch of chili powder, cayenne, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture to give it a little kick.

Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out—I’d love to hear your favorite variations or tips for making the best tater tot casserole with ground beef!