Save A comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole layered with savory ground beef, creamy sauce, cheese, and crispy tater tots—perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
I have made this casserole many times for my family's dinners and it always gets rave reviews.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (85% lean recommended)
- Onion: 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Frozen peas and carrots: 1 cup (150 g)
- Condensed cream of mushroom soup: 1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g)
- Whole milk: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 2 cups (200 g), divided
- Worcestershire sauce: 1/2 tsp
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: to taste
- Frozen tater tots: 1 bag (32 oz / 900 g)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Step 2:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5 7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Step 3:
- Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2 3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Step 4:
- Stir in frozen peas and carrots. Cook for 2 more minutes.
- Step 5:
- Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, 1 cup (100 g) cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Step 6:
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Step 7:
- Sprinkle 1/2 cup (50 g) cheddar cheese over the beef layer.
- Step 8:
- Arrange frozen tater tots in a single, even layer on top.
- Step 9:
- Bake uncovered for 35 minutes. Remove from oven, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup (50 g) cheddar cheese over the tater tots, and bake for another 10 minutes, until cheese is melted and tots are golden brown.
- Step 10:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Save This recipe always brings my family together and fills the house with such a warm aroma.
Required Tools
Large skillet, 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish, mixing spoon, measuring cups and spoons, oven
Allergen Information
Contains Milk, Wheat (in soup and possibly tater tots), Soy (possible in soup), Cheese. May contain Gluten (in soup and possibly tater tots). Always check labels for gluten and soy if allergies are a concern.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 480, Total Fat 28 g, Carbohydrates 35 g, Protein 20 g
Save 
This casserole is a satisfying and simple meal that will quickly become a family favorite.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I swap ground beef for another meat?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter version without altering the dish’s texture significantly.
- → What type of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar cheese is ideal for its melting qualities and flavor, but other cheeses like Monterey Jack can be used as alternatives.
- → How do I achieve crispy tater tots on top?
Baking uncovered at 375°F ensures the tater tots become golden and crispy. Adding cheese on top and baking longer enhances crispiness and flavor.
- → Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for several hours before baking, adjusting baking time if chilled.
- → Are there flavor variations to try?
Adding smoked paprika or substituting cream of chicken soup can add depth and variety to the dish.