Save Pin A comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole layered with savory ground beef, creamy sauce, cheese, and crispy tater tots—perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
This casserole has been a family favorite for years, bringing everyone together for a delicious and satisfying meal.
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)
- 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
- 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 vegetables:
- Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2 3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add peas and carrots:
- 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 everything is 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.
- Add tater tots:
- Arrange frozen tater tots in a single, even layer on top.
- Bake first:
- Bake uncovered for 35 minutes.
- Add more cheese and bake:
- 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.
- Rest:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Save Pin We often enjoy this casserole together on chilly afternoons, making memories around the dinner 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 (per serving)
Calories: 480, Total Fat: 28 g, Carbohydrates: 35 g, Protein: 20 g
Save Pin 
This recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that everyone will love.
Cooking Questions & Answers
- → Can I substitute ground turkey for beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a lighter alternative while maintaining the dish's hearty texture.
- → What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
Condensed cream of chicken soup is a great substitute and adds a slightly different but complementary flavor.
- → How do I ensure the tater tots stay crispy?
Bake the dish uncovered and add the cheddar cheese over the tater tots towards the end to keep them golden and crisp.
- → Can I add extra vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Frozen peas and carrots are included, but you can incorporate other vegetables like corn or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
- → What sides pair well with this layered casserole?
A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables complement the rich flavors and add freshness to the meal.