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A cheesy tater tot casserole in a baking dish topped with browned cheese, surrounded by fresh ingredients like sour cream, chives, and tomatoes.

Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole: Easy Comfort Food!

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Discover the ultimate Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole, a comforting and cheesy baked dish perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings. Featuring crispy tater tots layered with hearty chili and melted cheese, this easy-to-make casserole offers bold flavors and a satisfying meal in just over 45 minutes.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 (15 oz) can chili beans or kidney beans, drained
  • 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until translucent. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix in the diced tomatoes with green chilies and beans. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
  2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the cooked chili mixture evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer the frozen tater tots over the chili mixture, covering it completely.
  3. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses generously over the tater tots. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Broil for an additional 2-3 minutes for extra crispy top if desired.
  4. Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve hot, optionally pairing with salad or vegetables.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, substitute meat with extra beans or plant-based proteins.
  • Cover with foil during baking to prevent over-browning.
  • For an extra spicy flavor, add hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
  • Author: Serena Miller
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking, stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: All diets can modify (vegetarian, gluten-free options available)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 520 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 7 g
  • Sodium: 980 mg
  • Fat: 29 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 50 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg