Creamy Ground Beef and Tater Tot Casserole Recipe
This Quick Ground Beef Tater Tot Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish perfect for busy weeknights. Ground beef is cooked with onions and garlic, mixed with creamy mushroom soup and corn, topped with cheddar cheese and crispy frozen tater tots, then baked to golden perfection.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can corn, drained
Other Ingredients
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 bag frozen tater tots
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the casserole later.
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine ingredients: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and drained corn until well combined and evenly mixed with the beef.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the beef mixture into a baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef layer. Top with an even layer of frozen tater tots to cover the entire casserole surface.
- Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese has melted.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly for easier serving.
Notes
- For a lower-fat version, use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
- You can add vegetables like green beans or peas for extra nutrition and texture.
- If you like extra cheesy casseroles, sprinkle more shredded cheese on top before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat leftovers in the oven or microwave until hot throughout.
Keywords: ground beef casserole, tater tot casserole, quick dinner, easy casserole recipe, comfort food, baked casserole