Dinner

Tasty Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

Bylilan Sage October 24, 2025October 24, 2025

Introduction

Tater Tot Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines savory ground beef, vegetables, and crispy tater tots topped with melted cheddar cheese. It’s an easy, family-friendly meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

A close-up of a white baking dish filled with a layered casserole, featuring a top layer of golden, slightly browned puffed potato pieces sprinkled with green herbs and black pepper. Below that is a layer containing green beans and melted cheese that stretches as a piece is lifted with a spatula. Underneath, there is a moist layer consisting of cooked ground meat mixed with yellow corn kernels. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 1/2 to 2 pounds ground beef
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 medium white onion, diced
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup beef broth
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
1 (14.5 ounce) can corn kernels, drained
1 (14.5 ounce) can green beans, drained
32 ounces frozen tater tots
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

Step 1: In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef with salt and pepper until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add butter to the pan and let it melt completely. Stir in the flour until well combined, cooking for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
Step 3: Gradually pour in beef broth, milk, and Worcestershire sauce, stirring constantly. Bring to a simmer, then add the drained corn and green beans. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 4: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Step 5: Spread the meat and vegetable mixture evenly in the prepared pan. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the top, then sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 6: Bake uncovered for about 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of garlic powder or smoked paprika to the beef mixture.
Try swapping green beans for peas or mixed vegetables depending on your preference.
Use flavored shredded cheese like a sharp cheddar or a Mexican blend for a different twist.
To make it lighter, use ground turkey instead of beef and low-fat milk.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or in the microwave for quicker reheating, though the topping may lose crispness.

How to Serve

The image shows a white plate with a serving of a layered casserole dish. The top layer is made of golden-brown, crispy tater tots covered with melted, stretchy orange-yellow cheese and sprinkled with green parsley leaves. Below this, a middle layer of ground beef mixed with whole yellow corn kernels is visible. The bottom layer is partly seen as a soft, cooked base supporting the other layers. A silver fork lifts a bite, showing the layers held together with melted cheese stretching between the fork and the plate, all set on a surface with a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a few hours ahead and refrigerate it uncovered. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Can I substitute fresh vegetables for canned?

Absolutely! Use fresh or frozen corn and green beans if preferred. Just steam or blanch them before adding to ensure they cook evenly in the casserole.