Cowboy Casserole with Tater Tots

Cowboy casserole with tater tots always takes me back to a cozy winter weekend when I invited a few friends over for a casual movie night and I wanted something hearty, cheesy, and fun to share and I remember layering everything in my favorite baking dish while my friends snacked and chatted in the kitchen and the smell of bubbling cheese and crispy tater tots filled the whole house and we couldn’t wait to dig in together. That night turned into hours of laughing and second helpings and it made me realize how this dish has a special way of bringing people together.

I love making cowboy casserole with tater tots because it’s like a warm hug on a plate and the creamy beef filling, melty cheese, and crispy golden tots are just the perfect combo and every time I serve it, I see big smiles and happy bellies which makes it a recipe I return to again and again especially on busy days when I want something comforting but easy to pull together.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Ground beef – The savory, hearty base of the filling.
• Onion – Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor to the beef.
• Garlic – Brings depth and a delicious, savory punch.
• Cream of mushroom soup – Makes the filling creamy and comforting.
• Sour cream – Adds tanginess and makes the beef mixture extra luscious.
• Cheddar cheese – Melts into gooey, cheesy goodness on top.
• Frozen tater tots – The crispy, fun topping that finishes the dish.
• Green onions – For a fresh, colorful garnish.
• Salt and pepper – Essential for balancing and enhancing the flavors.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet – I use this to brown the beef and sauté the aromatics.
• Mixing spoon – Helps mix everything together smoothly.
• 9×13-inch baking dish – Perfect for layering and baking the casserole.
• Knife – For chopping onions and green onions easily.
• Cutting board – A sturdy surface for prepping all your ingredients.
• Oven mitts – Essential for safely handling the hot baking dish.

Instructions

Step 1

I start by preheating my oven to 375°F so it’s ready to go when the filling is done.

Step 2

Then I heat my skillet over medium heat, add the chopped onion, and cook until it’s soft and translucent.

Step 3

I add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4

Next, I add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with my spoon until browned and fully cooked through.

Step 5

I stir in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream, then season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing until everything is creamy and well combined.

Step 6

I spread the beef mixture evenly into my 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 7

Then I sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef layer.

Step 8

I arrange the frozen tater tots on top in a single layer, making sure they cover the entire surface.

Step 9

I bake the casserole for about 35-40 minutes until the tater tots are golden and crispy and the cheese is bubbly.

Step 10

Before serving, I sprinkle sliced green onions over the top for a fresh pop of color and flavor.

Tips

If you want an extra cheesy top, I like to add an extra handful of cheese on top of the tater tots during the last 10 minutes of baking. You can also swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken if you prefer a different flavor. For a bit of crunch, I sometimes add cooked bacon bits into the beef mixture. And if you want to make it ahead, just assemble and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake!

Ways to Serve

I love serving cowboy casserole with tater tots with a simple green salad or steamed veggies to balance the richness. It also makes a fun party dish since it’s easy to scoop and serve. Sometimes I add a side of pickles or a dollop of extra sour cream on top for an extra burst of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make cowboy casserole with tater tots ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it a day in advance, store it covered in the fridge, and bake when ready.

Can I freeze cowboy casserole with tater tots?

Definitely. Freeze after assembling, and when ready to cook, bake straight from frozen with a few extra minutes added to the bake time.

Can I use a different meat in cowboy casserole with tater tots?

Of course! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground work well in this recipe.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this cowboy casserole with tater tots a try! It’s a dish that feels like comfort in every bite, and I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Let me know in the comments or share your pictures so I can celebrate your delicious creation too! And if you enjoy this recipe, don’t forget to save it for your next cozy gathering.

Happy Cooking!