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 to my family on a chilly night and it quickly became a favorite for its ease and delicious flavors.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (85% lean recommended)
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, 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)
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 2 cups (200 g) divided
- Worcestershire sauce: 1/2 tsp
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: to taste
- Frozen tater tots: 1 bag (32 oz / 900 g)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Step 2:
- 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.
- Step 3:
- Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2 3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Step 4:
- Stir in frozen peas and carrots. Cook for 2 more minutes.
- Step 5:
- Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, 1 cup (100 g) cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Step 6:
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Step 7:
- Sprinkle 1/2 cup (50 g) cheddar cheese over the beef layer.
- Step 8:
- Arrange frozen tater tots in a single, even layer on top.
- Step 9:
- Bake uncovered for 35 minutes. Remove from oven, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup (50 g) cheddar cheese over the tater tots, and bake for another 10 minutes, until cheese is melted and tots are golden brown.
- Step 10:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Save Our family always gathers around the table to enjoy this meal together, making it a treasured tradition.
Notes
Serve with a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
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.
Save 
This casserole is comfort food at its finest and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd quickly.
Recipe FAQs
- → What is the best way to ensure the ground beef is flavorful?
Brown the ground beef well, breaking it up during cooking. Sauté onions and garlic together to build a savory base to enhance flavor.
- → Can I substitute other vegetables for the peas and carrots?
Yes, frozen corn, green beans, or diced bell peppers work well and add extra texture and color.
- → How do I get the tater tots crispy on top?
Bake the casserole uncovered so the tater tots can crisp up, and add additional cheese on top before the final baking step to encourage browning.
- → Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows flavors to meld and saves time on busy days.
- → What can I serve with this dish for a balanced meal?
A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables complement the rich casserole and provide a fresh contrast.