Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole with Sour Cream

There’s something magical about comfort food that brings people together, and this Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole with Sour Cream is no exception. As someone who loves both cooking and sharing meals with loved ones, I can confidently say this dish is a crowd-pleaser. It’s hearty, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy night in. The combination of crispy tater tots, creamy sour cream, and gooey cheese is simply irresistible.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this casserole is foolproof and forgiving. It’s also incredibly versatile—you can customize it with your favorite proteins or veggies. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a regular in your meal rotation. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special and how you can make it at home.

What You Need To Make This Recipe

Tater Tots: The star of the show, tater tots bring a crispy, golden texture to the casserole. They’re the perfect base, adding a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy layers underneath.

Ground Beef: Ground beef adds a hearty, savory element to the dish. It’s the protein-packed foundation that makes this casserole filling and delicious. You can also substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Onion: Onions provide a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor. When sautéed with the ground beef, they enhance the overall taste of the casserole.

Cream of Mushroom Soup: This ingredient adds a rich, creamy texture to the casserole. It binds everything together and infuses the dish with a savory, umami flavor.

Sour Cream: Sour cream brings a tangy creaminess that balances the richness of the cheese and beef. It’s the secret ingredient that takes this casserole to the next level.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheese is what makes this casserole irresistibly gooey and delicious. Cheddar melts beautifully and adds a sharp, savory flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Garlic Powder: A touch of garlic powder enhances the savory notes of the dish without overpowering the other flavors.

Salt and Pepper: These basic seasonings are essential for bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients.

Optional Toppings: Green onions, chopped parsley, or even a dollop of extra sour cream can be added for garnish and an extra burst of flavor.

Ingredients List

1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: chopped green onions or parsley for garnish

How to Make Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole with Sour Cream

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly and the tater tots get perfectly crispy.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Onion

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.

Step 3: Mix in the Creamy Ingredients

Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is combined and heated through.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

Spread the beef mixture evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, then arrange the tater tots in a single layer over the cheese.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired, then serve warm.

Tips for Making this Recipe

Customize the Protein: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a different twist.
Add Veggies: Mix in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties.
Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.
Prep Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Double the Recipe: This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd, so feel free to double the ingredients for larger gatherings.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely. After baking, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
Cream of chicken or cream of celery soup works well as a substitute. You can also make a homemade creamy sauce using butter, flour, and milk.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
Yes, you can slice or dice fresh potatoes and parboil them before using. However, tater tots provide a unique texture and convenience.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tater tots and a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup to make this dish gluten-free.

This Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole with Sour Cream is a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food. It’s easy, delicious, and guaranteed to become a family favorite!