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Ultimate Layered Tater Tot Casserole: The Comfort Food Classic You Need

This layered tater tot casserole combines seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, and crispy tater tots for a nostalgic and satisfying comfort food meal. The recipe offers both oven and crockpot cooking methods for versatile preparation.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, corn, carrots)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with diced onion and garlic over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
  3. Stir in both cans of soup, milk, mixed vegetables, 1 cup of cheese, thyme, pepper, and salt. Mix well.
  4. Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  5. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the top, covering the entire surface.
  6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the tots are golden brown and crispy.
  7. Sprinkle remaining cheese over the top and bake for an additional 5 minutes until melted.
  8. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

For the crispiest results, use high-quality tater tots. You can assemble the casserole up to the point of adding tater tots and refrigerate overnight, adding tots just before baking. Reheat leftovers in oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.