Tater Tot Casserole Recipe</strong> fans, you’re in for a treat! There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about this dish. Growing up, it was a staple in our family’s summer potlucks and weekend dinners, especially when my grandma whipped it up with her signature flair. Her secret? A golden, crunchy tater tot topping and a creamy filling that made you crave seconds before you’d finished your first bite.
This recipe is a tribute to that summery comfort, reimagined with a lighter twist that doesn’t weigh you down. Perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or those lazy Sundays when you want something warm, satisfying, and easy to make.
🕒 Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
🧾 Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 1 pound lean ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup frozen sweet corn
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh chives or green onions (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions
- Preheat the Oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Ground Meat: Brown ground beef with onions in a skillet, drain, add garlic and cook 1 more minute.
- Make the Creamy Filling: Stir in soup, sour cream, veggies, and cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer filling to the dish and top with tater tots in a single layer.
- Bake: Bake for 25 minutes. Add cheese on top and bake an additional 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped chives or green onions.
🍽 Serving Tips
Pair this dish with a green salad, fruit skewers, or a glass of iced tea or lemonade. Add sautéed bell peppers or grilled zucchini for extra summer flavour.
🧊 Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes or microwave for 2-3 minutes.
🔄 Variations & Tips
- Vegetarian: Substitute ground meat with plant-based protein or beans.
- Spicy: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the mix.
- Healthier: Use low-sodium soup and light sour cream.
💬 Let’s Chat!
Have you tried this tater tot casserole recipe? Got your summer twist to share? Drop your ideas in the comments or tag us on Instagram!
🍴 More Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re craving more comforting yet easy-to-make meals for the summer, you’ll love my
Easy Summer Pasta Salad—a refreshing blend of veggies and rotini tossed in a tangy vinaigrette.
For something heartier, don’t miss the
Creamy Chicken and Rice Bake, a one-dish wonder that’s both filling and freezer-friendly.
If you’re leaning into fresh garden flavours, these
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa are a colourful and nutritious option.
And for dessert? Treat yourself to a warm scoop of
Fresh Peach Cobbler—it’s the taste of summer in every bite!
Also, don’t miss out on our popular
Honey Garlic Chicken, a sticky-savoury classic that’s a hit every time.