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 first served this casserole to my family and it quickly became a favorite for busy weeknights and special gatherings.
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)
- Cheddar cheese: 2 cups (200 g) shredded, divided
- Worcestershire sauce: 1/2 tsp
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Frozen tater tots: 1 bag (32 oz / 900 g)
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Cook ground beef:
- 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.
- Sauté onion and garlic:
- Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2 3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add vegetables:
- Stir in frozen peas and carrots. Cook for 2 more minutes.
- Mix sauce:
- Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, 1 cup (100 g) cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and heated through.
- Assemble casserole:
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Add cheese layer:
- Sprinkle 1/2 cup (50 g) cheddar cheese over the beef layer.
- Top with tater tots:
- Arrange frozen tater tots in a single even layer on top.
- Bake first stage:
- Bake uncovered for 35 minutes.
- Add remaining cheese:
- Remove from oven, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup (50 g) cheddar cheese over the tater tots.
- Bake final stage:
- Bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is melted and tots are golden brown.
- Rest:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Save This dish is always a hit at family dinners and brings everyone together around the table.
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
Calories 480 Total Fat 28 g Carbohydrates 35 g Protein 20 g per serving
Save 
This delicious casserole is sure to become a weekly staple with its comforting flavors and easy preparation.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I substitute ground beef with another meat?
Yes, ground turkey can be used for a lighter version while maintaining the dish's savory character.
- → How can I make the topping crispier?
Ensure the tater tots are arranged evenly and bake uncovered to achieve a golden, crispy texture.
- → Is it possible to prepare this casserole ahead of time?
You can assemble it in advance and refrigerate before baking, but adjust baking time as needed to heat through.
- → What can I serve alongside this dish?
A fresh green salad complements the rich layers and adds a crisp contrast to the meal.
- → Can I use a different creamy base instead of mushroom soup?
Substituting cream of chicken soup works well, adding a slightly different but still creamy flavor profile.