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Crispy Tater Tot Casserole Recipe Easy Creamy Cheese Beef Bake

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A comforting and easy casserole featuring crispy tater tots layered over a creamy cheese and seasoned beef mixture, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 bag (about 32 oz) frozen tater tots
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart, until no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  3. Add chopped onion to the skillet with the beef. Cook 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Stir until smooth and creamy.
  5. Pour the beef, onion, and garlic mixture into the bowl with the creamy base. Mix thoroughly to coat everything evenly. Add salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Spread the beef and creamy mixture evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
  7. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the tater tots are golden brown and crispy. For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired and serve.

Notes

Drain excess fat from beef to avoid sogginess. Use room temperature sour cream for better blending. Layer cheese under the tots to keep creamy texture and crisp topping. Use frozen tots straight from the bag for best crispiness. Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for extra crunch but watch carefully to avoid burning. You can assemble ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking, adding a few extra minutes to baking time.

Nutrition

Keywords: tater tot casserole, crispy tater tots, creamy cheese beef bake, easy casserole, comfort food, family dinner, ground beef casserole