Description
Cowboy Tater Tot Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish featuring crispy tater tots, seasoned beef, melty cheese, and a rich, savory sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, and family meals!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of cheddar soup (or substitute with cream of chicken)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup frozen corn (or canned, drained)
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions or fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Beef Mixture
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Mix the Filling
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the cream of mushroom soup, cream of cheddar soup, sour cream, corn, Rotel tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the beef mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese.
- Bake
- Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Add the Final Touch
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the tater tots.
- Return the casserole to the oven for 5 more minutes, or until the cheese melts.
- Serve
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Spicy Version: Use pepper jack cheese and add diced jalapeños.
- BBQ Twist: Mix in 1/4 cup BBQ sauce for a smoky-sweet flavor.
- Different Proteins: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or sausage.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with black beans and use a plant-based cream soup.
- Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for more nutrients.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Category: casserole, comfort food
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: tater tot casserole, cowboy casserole, easy family dinner, ground beef recipe, cheesy casserole