Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole

Few things say “comfort food” quite like a bubbling, golden casserole fresh out of the oven. This Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole brings together all the best cozy flavors — savory ground beef, creamy mushroom sauce, tangy sour cream, and layers of melty cheddar cheese, all topped with crispy tater tots that bake to golden perfection.

It’s the kind of dish everyone goes back for seconds of — hearty, creamy, and full of nostalgia. Whether it’s for family dinners, potlucks, or a weeknight treat, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

🍴 Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 package (32 oz) frozen tater tots
Salt and pepper, to taste

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Brown the Beef

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked.
Drain off any excess grease.

Step 2: Cook the Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef.
Sauté for a few minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce Base

Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream, mixing until smooth and creamy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the beef mixture evenly into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
Arrange the tater tots in a single, even layer on top.

Step 5: First Bake

Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes, until the tater tots begin to turn golden and crispy.

Step 6: Add the Final Cheese Layer

Remove the casserole from the oven and top with the remaining cup of cheddar cheese.

Step 7: Finish Baking and Serve

Return to the oven for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to help it set.

✨ Tips for Perfect Tater Tot Casserole

Try different cheeses: Sharp cheddar, Colby Jack, or even Pepper Jack for a spicy twist.
Add veggies: Mix in corn, peas, or green beans for a heartier meal.
Make it ahead: Assemble up to a day in advance and refrigerate — just bake when ready to serve.
Freeze leftovers: Cools well and reheats beautifully for up to 2 months.

❤️ Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole is everything you want in a comfort meal — warm, creamy, and full of rich flavors wrapped in crispy golden potatoes. It’s simple, satisfying, and always a hit with kids and adults alike.

Serve it with a simple green salad or some steamed vegetables, and you’ve got yourself the perfect homestyle dinner — no fuss, just flavor.