Think of a meal that would cuddle you, bring back your childhood, and make the house smell so good that nobody could resist. That’s what happens with an easy tater tot casserole with cream of mushroom soup: the ultimate comfort food-creamy, crispy, hearty, and absolutely delicious.
Now think about the kind of meal that could cuddle you, bring your childhood back, and make the house smell so good no one could resist. That’s what happens if one thinks of an easy Tater Tot Casserole using cream of mushroom soup: just the ultimate comfort food, really creamy, crispy, hearty, and absolutely scrumptious.
Let’s dive into the easiest, most satisfying tater tot casserole recipe you’ll ever try!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal prep.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
- One-Pan Meal: Less mess, fewer dishes to clean.
- Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters love it!
- Customizable: Add veggies, and cheese, or spice it up.
This dish is not just food—it’s happiness in a casserole dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
- One pound of ground beef (or, for a leaner alternative, turkey)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 package of frozen tater tots (about 32 oz)
Optional Add-Ons for Extra Flavor
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1/2 cup frozen peas or corn
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce for depth of flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Casserole Base
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- The ground beef should be browned after cooking it in a skillet over medium heat. Empty the extra grease.
- Stir in cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
- Line a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with oil and evenly distribute the beef mixture.
- Cover the meat layer with grated cheese.
- Top with a single layer of frozen tater tots.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
- Bake the dish for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the tater tots are crispy and golden brown.
- Before serving, let it a few minutes to rest.
Tips for the Best Tater Tot Casserole
- For extra crispiness, bake uncovered and broil for the last 3 minutes.
- Want a richer taste? Use a mix of cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soup.
- Love extra cheese? Sprinkle more cheese on top halfway through baking.
Variations to Try
Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole
- Double the cheese! Use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for gooey goodness.
Spicy Version
- Add diced jalapeños and a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture.
Vegetarian Alternative
- Swap the meat for sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.
What to Serve with Tater Tot Casserole
- Fresh green salad for a crisp contrast
- Steamed broccoli or roasted Brussels sprouts for extra nutrients
- Garlic bread for a satisfying crunch
- Iced tea or lemonade to balance the richness
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes to keep the tater tots crispy.
Can You Make It Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate overnight. When ready, bake as directed—just add 5 extra minutes to the cooking time.
To freeze, wrap the unbaked casserole in foil and freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different soup instead of a cream of mushroom?
Yes! Cream of chicken or cream of celery works great too.
2. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Of course! Cook for two to three hours on high or four to five hours on low.
3. How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tater tots and a gluten-free condensed soup.
4. Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Of course! Peas, carrots, or green beans make great additions.
5. How long does it last in the fridge?
Stored properly, it stays fresh for up to 3 days.