If you’re looking for that cozy, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef, Green Beans, and Cheddar Cheese Recipe is absolutely your go-to. It’s a brilliant blend of crispy tater tots layered over savory, well-seasoned ground beef, fresh green beans, and oozing sharp cheddar cheese that brings everything together in one irresistible bake. This dish is not just about flavorful comfort; it’s an easy-to-prepare classic that will have everyone in your home asking for seconds and savoring every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet come together beautifully to create layers of taste, texture, and vibrant color. From the hearty ground beef to the crunchy golden tater tots and creamy cheddar cheese, each component plays an essential role in delivering this crowd-pleasing casserole.
- Ground beef (1 pound): The savory backbone that offers rich flavor and protein for this dish.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle aromatic punch that brightens the meat mixture.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Brings depth and a mild sweetness complementing the garlic.
- Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances and balances all the flavors in the recipe.
- Dried basil (½ teaspoon): Provides an herbaceous note that adds freshness.
- Ground black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds gentle heat and seasoning complexity.
- Canned green beans (15 ounces, drained): Adds texture and a splash of green, making the dish more wholesome.
- Cream of chicken soup (10 ounces): The creamy base that binds everything and keeps it moist and luscious.
- Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (2½ cups, divided): Melts beautifully to create gooey, cheesy layers enhancing every bite.
- Sour cream (½ cup): Introduces tanginess and creaminess, lifting the savory flavors.
- Ketchup (½ tablespoon): Adds just a touch of sweetness and acidity for balance.
- Low-sodium soy sauce (1 teaspoon): Deepens the umami notes without overpowering.
- Frozen tater tots (16 ounces, do not thaw): The crowning glory—crispy, golden, and perfectly crunchy topping for the casserole.
How to Make Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef, Green Beans, and Cheddar Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F so it’s ready to work its magic right when you are. While it warms, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish, give it a quick spray with cooking oil to prevent sticking, and set it aside for the layered goodness to come.
Step 2: Cook and Season the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s completely cooked through with no pink remaining. Once the beef is cooked, drain off any excess grease to keep the dish from getting too oily, then sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, dried basil, and ground black pepper. Stir well and set this flavorful beef mixture aside.
Step 3: Combine the Casserole Base
Grab a large mixing bowl and add your drained green beans, cream of chicken soup, one cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, sour cream, ketchup, and soy sauce. Stir these together until nicely blended, then fold in the seasoned cooked ground beef. This blend is the heart of your casserole—creamy, savory, and full of texture.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Pour the beef and green bean mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly so every bite is bursting with flavor. Next, take your frozen tater tots and arrange them in a single layer on top of the mixture. This will create that divine crispy crust everyone loves without losing moisture underneath.
Step 5: Bake and Add the Cheese Topping
Pop the casserole into the oven uncovered and bake for 25 minutes to let everything meld together and the tater tots get a head start on crisping. After 25 minutes, sprinkle the remaining 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return the dish to the oven for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese has melted into a bubbly blanket and the tater tots are golden brown—and the sides are enticingly bubbly.
How to Serve Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef, Green Beans, and Cheddar Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your serving game, consider adding freshly chopped green onions or a sprinkling of crisp bacon bits. Both provide lovely pops of color and additional savory layers. A dollop of sour cream on the side can add cooling creaminess, balancing the baked cheese’s richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines as a hearty main, but pairing it with a simple green salad or steamed fresh vegetables brings a refreshing contrast that brightens your plate. Roasted carrots or a tangy coleslaw can add crunch and vibrant flavors for a well-rounded meal your whole family will adore.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist at gatherings, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets for perfectly portioned, restaurant-style presentation. You can even sprinkle some crushed cornflakes mixed with melted butter on top instead of full cheese for a crunchy, golden crust variation that still honors this Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef, Green Beans, and Cheddar Cheese Recipe’s spirit.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers are just as delicious the next day! Store your casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it a satisfying quick lunch or dinner.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole before baking by assembling it in a freezer-safe dish, covering tightly with foil, and freezing for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through and the tater tots regain some crispness. Alternatively, microwaving works in a pinch, though it won’t maintain that perfectly crispy top.
FAQs
Can I use different vegetables instead of green beans?
Absolutely! This casserole is versatile—try substituting with broccoli, peas, or corn for a different twist. Just ensure they’re cooked or drained well to keep the texture balanced.
Is it okay to use a different type of cheese?
Yes! While sharp cheddar gives that classic flavor, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a cheese blend to suit your taste preferences.
Do I have to use cream of chicken soup?
If you want a lighter or vegetarian version, substitute with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup. Just be mindful of added seasoning as they can alter the casserole’s flavor slightly.
Can I prepare the casserole entirely ahead of time?
Definitely. Assemble the casserole a day in advance, keep it refrigerated, and bake it fresh when you’re ready. This way, you save time on busy days and still serve a fresh meal.
What if I don’t have frozen tater tots?
If you can’t find frozen tater tots, small frozen hash browns or even sliced potatoes can work, though texture and cooking times might vary slightly.
Final Thoughts
This Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef, Green Beans, and Cheddar Cheese Recipe is pure comfort food made simple. It’s one of those dishes that feels like it was crafted just for those cozy family dinners or casual get-togethers where everyone wants something warm, hearty, and ridiculously delicious. Once you try it, it’s going to be that recipe you come back to time and time again, guaranteed to bring smiles to the table and full bellies all around. Give it a go—you’ll love every crispy, cheesy bite!
Print
Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef, Green Beans, and Cheddar Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Tater Tot Casserole recipe combines seasoned ground beef, green beans, creamy soup, and plenty of sharp cheddar cheese, all topped with crispy golden tater tots. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, this easy-to-make casserole bakes in the oven to melty, bubbly perfection.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Casserole Base
- 15 ounces canned green beans, drained (1 can)
- 10 ounces cream of chicken soup (1 can)
- 2½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon low-sodium soy sauce
Topping
- 16 ounces frozen tater tots (do not thaw, 1 bag)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare the dish: Preheat oven to 375°F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking oil and set aside to prevent sticking.
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease to keep the casserole from being greasy.
- Season the beef: Add garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, dried basil, and black pepper to the cooked beef. Stir well and set aside.
- Mix casserole base: In a large bowl, combine the drained green beans, cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, ketchup, and soy sauce. Stir until smooth and evenly mixed. Then fold in the seasoned ground beef.
- Assemble casserole: Spread the beef and vegetable mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Add tater tot topping: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the beef mixture, covering it completely.
- Bake uncovered: Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 25 minutes to allow the tater tots to cook through and start to crisp.
- Add remaining cheese and finish baking: Sprinkle the remaining 1½ cups of cheddar cheese evenly over the tater tots, then return the casserole to the oven for 10 to 15 more minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tater tots turn golden brown.
Notes
- Do not thaw the tater tots before baking to ensure they become crispy.
- Drain excess grease from the cooked beef to prevent a soggy casserole.
- You can substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom for a different flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For extra crunch, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.
