Description
This Tater Tot Casserole is a classic comfort food made with a savory beef and vegetable base, creamy sauce, melted cheese, and crispy golden tater tots.
Ingredients
- Beef Base
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 2 tsp ketchup
- 3 tsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 2 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, divided
- 32 oz frozen tater tots
- Sauce/Gravy
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 chicken bouillon cube
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Optional
- 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix broth, bouillon, soy sauce, onion powder, and garlic powder. Set aside.
- Cook ground beef and onion until browned. Add garlic and bell peppers. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in ketchup, mustard, and tomato paste.
- Add flour and cook 2 minutes until no raw flour smell remains.
- Slowly add broth mixture while scraping pan. Simmer until thickened.
- Optional: Add cream of mushroom soup for extra creaminess.
- Transfer to casserole dish if needed. Add corn and 2 cups cheese.
- Top with frozen tater tots in an even layer.
- Bake 40 minutes, then add remaining cheese and bake 5 more minutes.
- Let cool slightly, garnish if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- Do not bake above 375°F to prevent soggy base.
- Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness.
- Frozen vegetables can be swapped (green beans, mixed veggies, etc.).
- Ground turkey can replace beef if preferred.
- Let rest before serving for best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Casserole
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American