Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground beef – This forms the hearty base of the dish. You can swap for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- 1 (10.5 oz.) can cream of mushroom soup – Adds creamy texture and flavor. Feel free to substitute with cream of chicken or celery if you prefer.
- 1 (28 or 32 oz.) bag of frozen tater tots – The star of the dish, providing that crispy top layer everyone loves.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided – You’ll need cheese for the beef mixture and an extra sprinkle at the end for melty goodness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – Season the beef to your liking.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Start by heating the oven to ensure it’s ready when your casserole is assembled. - Cook the ground beef.
In a large skillet, cook 1 pound of ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and cooked through. Stir occasionally to break up the meat, ensuring it’s no longer pink in the center. Season with salt and pepper to taste. - Drain the grease.
Once the beef is fully browned, drain off the excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too oily. - Mix in the cream of mushroom soup.
Add the can of cream of mushroom soup to the skillet with the cooked beef and stir until well combined. This creates a creamy base that will hold everything together. - Layer the beef mixture in a baking dish.
Pour the beef and soup mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. - Add cheese.
Sprinkle 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef mixture. - Top with tater tots.
Arrange the frozen tater tots in an even layer over the top of the cheese. Try to cover the entire surface for maximum crunch. - Bake.
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35-45 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy. - Add the remaining cheese.
Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top. Pop it back into the oven for about 3 minutes, just until the cheese melts. - Serve and enjoy!
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. The layers of beef, cheese, and crispy tater tots create a satisfying dish that’s ready to enjoy.
Notes
Serving and Presentation Ideas
For a beautiful presentation, serve the casserole in individual portions with a garnish of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. Pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish. Serve directly from the baking dish for a casual, family-style meal, or plate it in smaller portions for a more elegant dinner setting.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-45 minutes
- Category: Dinner