Description
This hearty Tater Tot Casserole features a savory blend of lean ground beef, onions, garlic, and creamy mushroom soup, layered with corn and shredded cheddar cheese, all topped with crispy golden tater tots. Perfect for a family dinner, this comforting casserole combines rich flavors and a satisfying crunch, baked to bubbly perfection.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Meat & Vegetables
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (12 ounce) can corn, drained
Wet Ingredients & Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- Salt & pepper to taste
Cheese & Topping
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 32 ounces frozen tater tots
- Chopped scallions for serving (optional, to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F and position the oven rack in the top third to ensure even cooking and browning of the tater tots.
- Cook Ground Beef and Onions: In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and chopped onions. Cook while stirring occasionally and breaking up the beef with a spoon until the beef is browned and the onions have softened, about 7–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Garlic and Seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning, cooking for another minute to release their flavors.
- Mix in Creamy Ingredients: Lower the heat to medium. Add the sour cream, condensed cream of mushroom soup, drained corn, and about half a cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well and heat through for one to two minutes until fully combined and warm.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the beef mixture from the skillet to a 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top, then arrange the frozen tater tots evenly as the final layer.
- Bake: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese is hot and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from oven, optionally garnish with chopped scallions, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.
Notes
- Tater tot package sizes vary; any amount around 32 ounces will work. Adjust the quantity based on the size of your baking dish and how densely you arrange the tater tots.
- Because some ingredients may be high in sodium, consider using low-sodium alternatives if you are salt-sensitive.
- Serves 6 to 8 people depending on portion size.
- This recipe is featured on page 198 of the Salt & Lavender: Everyday Essentials cookbook.