This Tater Tot Casserole is the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights, bringing together crispy tater tots, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy filling.
Whether you’re looking for a hearty dish to feed the family or a simple make-ahead dinner, this savory casserole is always a hit. Pair it with a fresh side salad or enjoy it on its own for a satisfying meal.

Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 can 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 bag 16 ounces frozen tater tots
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until browned, then drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream, mixing until well combined.
- Transfer the beef mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.
- Bake for 30 minutes, then remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, let it cool for 5 minutes, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Special Considerations:
This casserole is perfect for meal prepping since it reheats well for leftovers. To make it even creamier, add a little extra sour cream or swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of cheddar. If you prefer a crunchier topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
Notes/Variations
Add cooked bacon or ground sausage for extra flavor.
Use a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for a richer taste.
Swap cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken for a different flavor.
Use a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for a richer taste.
Swap cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken for a different flavor.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!