Cheesy Beef Tater Tot Skillet

Cozy and Delicious Tater Tot Casserole That Will Win Over Your Family

These scrumptious tater tots come together in a single dish, blending delicious ground beef, savory cheese, and crispy potatoes for a meal the whole family will love. You can whip it up in just 45 minutes, making it an easy weeknight dinner solution and comforting enough for any gathering.

Tater Tot Casserole is a nostalgic dish that many of us grew up enjoying , it’s the kind of meal that warms your heart and brings everyone to the table. With its cheesy layers and crispy top, this recipe is an invitation to cozy up with your loved ones. Let’s dive in and make a dish that’s bound to become a family favorite!

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Why You’ll Love This Tater Tot Casserole

This cheesy, hearty Tater Tot Casserole is perfect for busy nights or lazy weekends. It combines the beloved charm of tater tots with ground beef and melted cheese, creating a comforting meal that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s easily customizable, so you can tweak it to fit your family’s taste.

How to Make Tater Tot Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 (12 ounce) can corn (drained)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar (divided)
• 32 ounces frozen tater tots (see note)
• Salt & pepper (to taste)
• Chopped scallions (for serving, optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and move the rack to the top third of the oven.
2. In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and chopped onions. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are soft, about 7-8 minutes. Spoon out any excess fat if needed.
3. Stir in garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about a minute to let the flavors meld together.
4. Reduce the heat to medium and mix in the sour cream, condensed soup, corn, and about 1/2 cup of the cheddar cheese. Stir well and let it heat through for a couple of minutes.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 casserole dish and smooth it into an even layer. If you prefer, you can use an oven-safe skillet for this step.
6. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, then layer the tater tots evenly over everything.
7. Bake the casserole uncovered for 45 minutes, until the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese is nice and bubbly.
8. Serve warm with a sprinkle of chopped scallions and extra salt and pepper as needed.

Serving Suggestions for Your Tater Tot Casserole

This casserole can hold its own, but a fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables can add a nice crunch and balance the meal. You could also serve it with some homemade garlic bread for a deliciously comforting feast!

How to Store This Tater Tot Casserole

If you have leftovers (which might be rare because it’s so good!), let the casserole cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it before baking, and then just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy.

Tips for Perfecting Your Tater Tot Casserole

• Feel free to experiment with different proteins! Ground turkey or chicken can be a lighter option.
• Add some veggies like bell peppers or frozen peas to the meat mixture for extra nutrition.
• If you love a little spice, add some diced jalapeños or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.

Variations to Consider

You can switch up the flavor profile by using different types of cheese—pepper jack adds a nice kick! Or, for a healthier twist, consider using sweet potato tater tots; they give a slightly different flavor and a nutritional boost.

FAQs

Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the entire casserole ahead of time and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Can I use other types of frozen potatoes besides tater tots?

Yes! You can use frozen hash browns or even homemade mashed potatoes as an alternative.

How can I make this casserole vegetarian?

You can replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat and skip the Worcestershire sauce, or use a vegetarian version.

Get ready to dig into this comforting and delicious Tater Tot Casserole that promises to steal the show at your dinner table!