Description
A comforting and hearty Tater Tot Casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, corn, and melted cheddar cheese, all topped with crispy baked tater tots. Perfect for an easy family dinner.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (12 ounce) can corn, drained
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Dairy
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Others
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 32 ounces frozen tater tots
- Chopped scallions, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F and position the oven rack to the top third to ensure optimal browning of the casserole.
- Brown Beef and Onions: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onions together. Stir occasionally and break up the meat with a spoon until the beef is browned and the onions are softened, about 7-8 minutes. Remove excess fat if necessary.
- Add Garlic and Seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Cook the mixture for about one minute to develop the flavors.
- Mix in Creamy Ingredients: Lower the heat to medium. Add sour cream, condensed cream of mushroom soup, drained corn, and about half a cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well and allow the mixture to heat through for 1-2 minutes.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the beef mixture evenly into a 9×13 inch casserole dish. If you have a large oven-safe skillet, you may use it to assemble and bake the casserole.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture, then evenly top with frozen tater tots.
- Bake: Place the casserole uncovered in the oven and bake for 45 minutes until the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and optionally garnish with chopped scallions. Season with salt and pepper as needed and serve hot.
Notes
- Feel free to use a large oven-safe skillet to cook and bake the casserole all in one pan for easier cleanup.
- Drain the corn thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery or cream of chicken soup if preferred.
- For extra crispy tater tots, you may broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
