Amazing Tater Tot Casserole Ground Beef 1 Hour

Tater tot casserole ground beef has been a staple in my family for as long as I can remember. It’s the ultimate comfort food, and the smell of it baking in the oven always brings back such warm memories of cozy family dinners. I’ve discovered that this easy ground beef tater tot casserole recipe is incredibly forgiving, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of savory ground beef, creamy sauce, melted cheese, and those perfectly crispy tater tots is just pure magic. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Tater Tot Casserole

This ground beef tater tot casserole is a winner for so many reasons! It’s the kind of meal that makes everyone happy, from picky eaters to seasoned foodies. You’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again because it’s just that good.

• Quick and Easy Preparation: Seriously, you can get this dish from start to finish in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Comfort Food Classic: It’s pure nostalgic bliss in a dish, bringing back warm memories with every bite.
• Family-Friendly Flavors: The combination of savory ground beef, creamy sauce, and crispy tater tots appeals to everyone.
• Budget-Friendly Meal: You don’t need fancy ingredients; this recipe uses pantry staples that are easy on your wallet.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easily adapt this ground beef tater tot casserole recipe to your liking by adding veggies or switching up the cheese.
• Minimal Cleanup: Most of the cooking happens in one skillet and one baking dish, meaning less time scrubbing and more time enjoying.
• Crowd-Pleasing: This hearty ground beef and tater tot bake is always a hit at potlucks and family gatherings.

Ingredients for Your Ground Beef Tater Tot Casserole

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating this classic ground beef tater tot casserole recipe. This dish relies on pantry staples and fresh items to create a hearty meal that’s both comforting and delicious.

Core Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef – the savory base of our casserole
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – this adds a rich, creamy texture that binds everything together
• 1/2 cup sour cream – for an extra layer of creaminess and a slight tang
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided – essential for that gooey, cheesy topping
• 1 bag (16 oz) frozen tater tots – the star that gets perfectly crispy when baked

Seasonings and Spices

• Salt and pepper to taste – to enhance all the flavors
• Optional: Garlic powder, paprika, or other preferred spices – feel free to customize with your family’s favorite flavor boosters

Optional Add-ins

• Optional: 1 cup mixed vegetables – like peas, corn, or carrots, for added color and nutrition in this tater tot casserole ground beef with vegetables

How to Make Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

This classic ground beef tater tot casserole recipe comes together surprisingly quickly, making it a weeknight lifesaver. You’ll love how easy it is to assemble, and the aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes is pure comfort.

1. Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a large skillet and brown 1 pound ground beef over medium heat. As it cooks, break it up with a spoon. Add 1 medium onion, diced, and season generously with salt and pepper. I also like to toss in a pinch of garlic powder here for extra flavor. Cook until the beef is nicely browned and the onions are tender and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess grease; nobody wants a greasy casserole!
2. Step 2: Combine and Heat the Base. Now for the creamy goodness! Stir the cooked beef and onion mixture with 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup and 1/2 cup sour cream right in the skillet. Heat this mixture gently until it’s warmed through and everything is combined into a luscious sauce. If you’re adding 1 cup mixed vegetables, now’s the time to stir them in. This is where the magic starts to happen for your hearty tater tot casserole ground beef.

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3. Step 3: Assemble the Casserole. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the savory beef and creamy sauce mixture evenly across the bottom. This forms the delicious foundation of your ground beef and tater tot bake. Next, sprinkle about 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef layer. Finally, arrange the 1 bag (16 oz) frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese. Try to cover as much of the beef mixture as possible for that perfect crunchy topping.
4. Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection. Place the assembled casserole into your preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for the tater tots to be beautifully golden brown and crispy, and the filling to be bubbling around the edges. This is a key step in making the best tater tot casserole ground beef. Once they look perfect, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots. Return the dish to the oven for another 5 minutes, or pop it under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch it closely so it doesn’t burn!

5. Step 5: Rest and Serve. Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to hot casseroles! Let your finished tater tot casserole ground beef cheese masterpiece rest on a wire rack for about 5 minutes before you serve it. This allows the cheese and filling to set up slightly, making it easier to scoop and serve. Serve hot and enjoy this ultimate comfort food!

Pro Tips for the Best Ground Beef Tater Tot Casserole

I’ve made this ground beef tater tot casserole more times than I can count, and over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks to ensure it comes out perfectly every time. These simple tips will help you achieve that ideal balance of creamy, savory, and crispy goodness that makes this dish a true comfort food champion.

• Always use frozen tater tots for the crispiest topping; thawed tots can become soggy.
• Don’t overcrowd the tater tots in the pan; a single layer allows them to crisp up nicely.
• Adding a bit of extra seasoning to the ground beef mixture, like garlic powder or paprika, really boosts the flavor.
• Letting the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking allows it to set, preventing a soupy mess.

What’s the secret to perfect crispy tater tots?

The key to crispy tater tots is ensuring they’re in a single, even layer on top of the casserole. Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 375°F (190°C). Baking them until they’re golden brown and bubbly is essential for that satisfying crunch. For more tips on achieving perfect crispiness, check out general baking tips.

Can I make this ground beef tater tot casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole, from the beef mixture to the tater tot topping, up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through. This is a great way to save time on busy days, similar to how meal prepping can help.

How do I avoid common mistakes with tater tot casserole?

The biggest pitfalls are soggy tater tots and bland flavor. To prevent soggy tots, use frozen ones and bake them uncovered until golden. For flavor, don’t skimp on seasoning the ground beef and consider adding optional spices or vegetables to your tater tot ground beef casserole easy assembly. You can find more information on food preparation best practices.

Best Ways to Serve Your Tater Tot Casserole

This ground beef tater tot casserole is a complete meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with a few simple sides to round out your dinner. Whether you’re going for a quick weeknight meal or a more traditional spread, these suggestions will complement the rich flavors of your casserole.

Classic Comfort Food Pairings

For a truly comforting meal, serve your classic ground beef tater tot casserole with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. Steamed green beans or broccoli also make excellent, healthy additions that cut through the richness of the casserole.

Quick Weeknight Meal Ideas

When time is short, your tater tot casserole ground beef cheese dish needs minimal accompaniment. A side of applesauce offers a sweet contrast, or a quick batch of canned corn heated through is always a hit. These simple additions make for an effortless and satisfying dinner. For more quick meal ideas, explore our collection of quick recipes.

Nutrition Facts for Ground Beef Tater Tot Casserole

This hearty tater tot casserole ground beef is a satisfying dish, but keep these numbers in mind. Remember, these are estimates for one serving of this classic ground beef tater tot casserole recipe, and actual values can vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes.

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 800 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Tater Tot Casserole Ground Beef

Leftovers of this delicious ground beef tater tot casserole are a treat, and knowing how to store and reheat them properly ensures you can enjoy this comfort food anytime. Proper storage is key to maintaining the texture and flavor of your ground beef casserole tater tots, making sure that next meal is just as satisfying as the first.

Refrigeration and Short-Term Storage

Once your casserole has cooled slightly, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it into an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. This makes it super convenient for having quick lunches or dinners ready to go throughout the week.

Freezing for Later

If you’ve made a larger batch or want to prepare ahead, this tater tot casserole ground beef freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then wrap individual portions or the entire dish tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil or a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Remember to label it with the date!

Reheating Methods

To reheat from the refrigerator, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through, or bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes. For frozen portions, it’s best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating as described. You can also reheat directly from frozen in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until heated through. For crispier tots, you can finish under the broiler for a minute or two.

Variations of Ground Beef Tater Tot Casserole

This classic ground beef tater tot casserole is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your family’s preferences and dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a lighter option, need to accommodate dietary restrictions, or just want to shake up the flavors, there are plenty of delicious ways to make this dish your own.

Lighter and Healthier Options

For a leaner take on this beloved dish, try swapping the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You can also make this tater tot casserole ground beef with vegetables even healthier by stirring in an extra cup of mixed veggies like peas, corn, or finely chopped bell peppers into the beef mixture. For a creamier, tangier base with fewer calories, substitute the sour cream with plain Greek yogurt.

Dairy-Free or Gluten-Free Adaptations

Making this ground beef casserole tater tots dairy-free is easy! Simply use a dairy-free cream of mushroom soup alternative and omit the cheddar cheese or opt for your favorite dairy-free shredded cheese. For a gluten-free version, ensure your cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free options, and you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers as a binder if you’re not using tater tots.

Spicy or Flavorful Twists

Want to add a little kick to your tater tot ground beef casserole easy meal? Stir in a tablespoon or two of your favorite hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the beef mixture. You can also amp up the flavor with different spices like smoked paprika for a smoky depth, Italian seasoning for an herbaceous note, or even a bit of chili powder for a Tex-Mex flair. Experimenting with different cheeses, like Monterey Jack or a spicy pepper jack, can also add a delightful twist.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef Tater Tot Casserole

Can I use different types of ground meat?

Absolutely! This ground beef tater tot casserole is super versatile. While ground beef is classic, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey, ground chicken, or even ground Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. Just ensure you cook it thoroughly and drain any excess fat, just like you would with the regular ground beef. For more information on cooking different types of meat, consult meat preparation guidelines.

What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?

No cream of mushroom soup? No problem! You can still create a delicious creamy tater tot casserole ground beef by using other condensed cream soups like cream of chicken or cream of celery. Another great alternative is to make your own simple white sauce by melting butter, whisking in flour, and gradually adding milk until thickened, then seasoning it well. This ensures your ground beef and tater tot bake stays wonderfully moist.

How can I make this casserole creamier?

To achieve an extra creamy texture in your tater tot casserole ground beef cheese, try a few simple tricks. You can add a bit more sour cream or even a dollop of plain Greek yogurt to the beef mixture. Another fantastic way to boost creaminess is to stir in a splash of milk or heavy cream into the soup and beef mixture before layering. For a richer, creamier base, some people even use a can of condensed cheddar cheese soup.

Amazing Tater Tot Casserole Ground Beef 1 Hour

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• Author: Fatima Garcia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Ground Beef Tater Tot Casserole is a hearty and comforting family favorite. It features seasoned ground beef topped with a creamy sauce, melted cheese, and crispy tater tots. It’s an easy and delicious dinner perfect for any night of the week.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound Ground Beef
• 1 medium Onion, diced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) Cream of Mushroom Soup
• 1/2 cup Sour Cream
• 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese, divided
• 1 bag (16 oz) Frozen Tater Tots
• Salt and Pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 cup Mixed Vegetables (peas, corn, carrots)
• Optional: Garlic powder, paprika, or other preferred spices

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, brown 1 pound of ground beef over medium heat for 5-7 minutes. Add diced onion, salt, pepper, and any chosen seasonings. Cook until the meat is browned and onions are soft. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir the cooked beef mixture with the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. Heat until warmed through and well combined. If using, stir in optional mixed vegetables.
4. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread the beef mixture evenly as the base layer.
5. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef layer.
6. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
8. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or broil for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
9. Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

• For a leaner option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
• If you prefer a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free cream soup alternative and omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese.
• Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier substitute for sour cream.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, corn, or bell peppers to the beef mixture.
• Customize the flavor with your favorite spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.
• Ensure tater tots are in a single layer for maximum crispiness.
• For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the beef mixture.
• Serve hot for the best texture and flavor.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg

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