Casseroles bring a certain comfort that is hard to beat. There is something nostalgic about a warm, bubbly dish coming out of the oven, especially when it has crispy tater tots on top. Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is one of those classic family recipes that never go out of style. It is filling, affordable, and incredibly easy to throw together, even on busy nights. With just a few basic ingredients and very little prep, you can make a hearty meal that feeds the whole family with plenty of flavor and texture in every bite.
This casserole is a hit with both kids and adults. The crispiness of the tater tots, the rich flavor of the seasoned beef, and the creamy middle layer create a balance of textures that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. It is also a flexible dish. You can add vegetables, change up the cheese, or even switch out the meat depending on what you have at home. That makes it not only satisfying but also practical, which is exactly what a good weeknight meal should be. Whether you are cooking for a full household or just looking to make something simple and satisfying, this dish fits the bill perfectly.
Ingredients Needed
Making this casserole does not require a long shopping list. Most of these ingredients are pantry staples or freezer regulars. That is why it is such a go-to meal for families. You can usually pull it together without needing a special trip to the store. Below is a simple list along with a helpful table showing estimated calorie counts per main ingredient. These numbers are general estimates and can vary depending on brand and portion size.
Ingredients List
- Ground beef (85 percent lean)
- Frozen tater tots
- Yellow onion, chopped
- Fresh garlic, minced
- Cream of mushroom soup
- Whole or 2 percent milk
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Olive oil or butter for sautéing
- Salt and black pepper
Ingredients and Calorie Table
| Ingredient | Quantity | Estimated Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound | 680 |
| Frozen tater tots | 1 bag (32 ounces) | 640 |
| Onion | 1 medium | 45 |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | 8 |
| Cream of mushroom soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) | 230 |
| Milk | 1/2 cup | 60 |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 1/2 cups | 480 |
| Olive oil or butter | 1 tablespoon | 120 |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | 0 |
Each serving of this dish ends up being around 400 calories on average, depending on portion size and added ingredients.
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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While that heats up, place a skillet on the stove over medium heat. Add a little oil or butter to the pan, then throw in your chopped onion. Let it cook until soft and translucent, stirring occasionally so it does not burn. This gives the dish a sweeter, richer flavor at the base.
Next, add your ground beef into the skillet. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Stir often so it browns evenly. Once the meat is fully cooked and no longer pink, drain off any extra grease. Then, stir in the garlic and let it cook for another minute so the flavor spreads through the meat.
At this point, add the cream of mushroom soup and milk to the pan. Stir until everything is combined into a thick, creamy mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for just a couple of minutes so everything blends together. You want a smooth texture, not too runny but not dry either.
Pour the beef mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Now it is time for the tater tots. Lay them out across the top of the casserole in rows or scatter them if you prefer a more rustic look. The key is to keep them in a single layer so they crisp up in the oven.
Place the dish in the oven uncovered. Let it bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. The top should be golden and crispy and the cheese should be melted and bubbly. If you want an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle a little more cheddar on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This gives the layers time to set and makes it easier to slice.
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Tips for Customizing the Recipe
This dish is easy to adapt to different tastes and diets. One of the best things about it is that you can change it up without losing the essence of what makes it good. Here are a few ideas to try.
Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you want a lighter version. You can also use plant-based ground alternatives if you are cooking for someone vegetarian. The flavor still comes through with the creamy soup and cheese.
Add in vegetables like peas, corn, green beans, or even chopped spinach. You can mix them into the beef layer or sprinkle them in before adding the cheese. This is a great way to add color, texture, and nutrition.
Try different cheeses depending on what you like. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend all work well. A bit of smoked gouda can also bring a rich, savory twist.
If you want more flavor, add a touch of garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika to the beef while cooking. A few red pepper flakes can add some heat if you like spice.
Nutritional Information
This is a filling meal, so you may not need large portions. On average, here is what you can expect in a single serving when dividing the casserole into six portions:
Calories: 400
Protein: 22 grams
Carbohydrates: 30 grams
Fat: 24 grams
Fiber: 2 grams
Sugar: 2 grams
Sodium: 600 milligrams
These values can shift depending on how much cheese you use or if you include extra ingredients like vegetables or different meats. It is a good idea to use low sodium soup or cheese if you are watching your salt intake.
Serving Suggestions
Tater Tot Casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own but it pairs well with fresh sides. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or carrots also work well. Even simple steamed green beans add a nice contrast in color and flavor.
If you are serving this for a family dinner, warm bread rolls or garlic toast make a nice addition. The leftovers also reheat well, either in the oven to keep the tater tots crispy or in the microwave for convenience.
You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for up to a month. Just let the dish cool before wrapping and freezing. When ready to eat, reheat until hot throughout and the top is crisp again.
Read More: Quick Buffalo Chicken Casserole for Busy Nights
Conclusion
Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is one of those meals that brings everyone to the table with a smile. It is easy, flavorful, and comforting in all the right ways. Whether you are making it for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or just to use up ingredients in your kitchen, it always delivers.
What makes it even better is how flexible it can be. You can change up the flavors, sneak in extra veggies, or make it a little lighter without much effort. It is a classic for a reason and once you make it, you will see why it has stood the test of time. Keep it in your recipe box and it will become one of your regular go-to meals.