If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that checks every box for flavor and simplicity, Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef and Rotel is about to become your new go-to. This dish brings together crispy tater tots, juicy seasoned ground beef, the zesty tang of Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, and a bubbling layer of gooey cheddar cheese. Every bite is a celebration of creamy, cheesy, savory goodness that feels like a cozy hug at the end of a long day. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or need a hearty dish for a potluck, this casserole delivers big on taste and ease.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef and Rotel keeps things simple yet irresistible. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to add a unique layer of texture, color, and bold flavor to the final dish.
- Ground beef (1 pound): The rich, savory base for the casserole, bringing hearty flavor and protein.
- Onion, finely chopped (1 small): Adds sweet, aromatic depth that balances the richness of the beef and cheese.
- Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained (1 can, 10 oz): Delivers a burst of tangy tomato and gentle heat that wakes up the whole dish.
- Cream of mushroom soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): Binds everything together in creamy, savory deliciousness—feel free to substitute with cream of chicken or cheddar soup for a twist.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses the casserole with a subtle, savory kick that enhances every other ingredient.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds just the right touch of warmth and earthiness.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups, divided): The star of the show, creating melty, golden layers both inside and on top of the casserole.
- Frozen tater tots (1 bag, 32 oz): The crispy, golden crown that makes every serving feel extra special.
How to Make Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef and Rotel
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This ensures your casserole bakes evenly and comes out hot and bubbly. While the oven heats up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so nothing sticks and cleanup is a breeze.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onions
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and finely chopped onion together until the beef is browned and the onion turns soft and fragrant. This step lays the foundation for your Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef and Rotel, building layers of flavor right from the start. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat for a less greasy casserole.
Step 3: Mix in the Flavor Boosters
Stir in the drained Rotel tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, black pepper, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is fully combined and the cheese melts in, creating a creamy, savory filling that’s hard to resist sneaking a bite of!
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the beef mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. This ensures every scoop has a perfect balance of beefy, cheesy goodness. Then, arrange a single layer of frozen tater tots on top, nestling them in for their crispy oven transformation.
Step 5: Bake and Top with Cheese
Bake the casserole uncovered for 35 minutes to let the tater tots get golden and crispy. Then, pull it out, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese all over the top, and pop it back in the oven for 10 more minutes. This final bake melts the cheese into an irresistible, bubbly topping that makes the Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef and Rotel absolutely crave-worthy.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Give your casserole a 5-minute rest before serving. This lets everything set up just enough for perfect, cheesy scoops. Trust me, the anticipation only makes that first bite better!
How to Serve Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef and Rotel
Garnishes
Take your finished casserole to the next level by sprinkling on some fresh chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness. A dollop of sour cream or a few sliced jalapeños can also add fun flavor twists that complement the cheesy, savory layers.
Side Dishes
This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to lighten things up. For an all-out comfort meal, serve it with buttered corn or classic coleslaw—each bite will feel even more indulgent!
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re making Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef and Rotel for a gathering, try baking it in individual ramekins for personal portions. Or, cut it into neat squares and serve with toothpicks as a fun party appetizer. The possibilities are as endless as your imagination!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftover casserole cool completely, then cover the dish tightly with foil or transfer portions to airtight containers. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it a lifesaver for quick lunches or weeknight dinners.
Freezing
Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef and Rotel freezes wonderfully! Assemble the casserole (but don’t bake), wrap it well, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding extra time as needed to ensure it’s piping hot in the center.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. For single servings, the microwave works great—just zap in 1-minute bursts until hot. If you want to restore crispiness to the tater tots, briefly uncover the dish and broil for a couple of minutes at the end.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey makes a leaner alternative and still tastes fantastic. The flavors from the Rotel, cheese, and seasonings ensure you won’t miss the beef one bit.
What if I can’t find Rotel?
If Rotel isn’t available, substitute with a can of diced tomatoes and a small can of chopped green chilies. You’ll get the same juicy, tangy kick that makes Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef and Rotel so special.
Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! Just be sure to use a certified gluten-free cream of mushroom soup (or your preferred gluten-free alternative), and check your tater tots for gluten-containing ingredients.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Definitely! Stir in a cup of frozen mixed vegetables or peas and carrots with the beef mixture for extra color, nutrition, and flavor—the casserole is super adaptable.
How do I keep the tater tots crispy?
For the crispiest topping, always bake the casserole uncovered, and if you like an extra crunch, give the tater tots a quick spray of cooking oil before baking. Broiling for a couple of minutes at the end also adds irresistible golden crispiness.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef and Rotel, there’s no better time than now. It’s the kind of recipe that brings smiles to the table and makes everyone ask for seconds. Give it a go and see why this comforting classic has earned a permanent spot in so many kitchens!
Print
Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef and Rotel Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and cheesy tater tot casserole featuring savory ground beef, diced tomatoes with green chilies, creamy mushroom soup, and melted cheddar cheese, baked to golden perfection. This hearty American main course is perfect for family dinners and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Topping
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Beef and Onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and finely chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion turns soft. Drain any excess fat to keep the mixture from being greasy.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the drained Rotel tomatoes, condensed cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, black pepper, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything thoroughly and heat through to combine the flavors evenly.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the beef mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Layer the frozen tater tots evenly over the beef mixture.
- Bake First Phase: Bake the assembled casserole uncovered for 35 minutes, allowing the tater tots to cook through and start crisping.
- Add Cheese and Bake Again: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven. This helps it set for easier serving. Then serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of cheddar soup for a different flavor profile.
- For a spicier dish, use hot Rotel diced tomatoes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture.
- Add frozen mixed vegetables to the beef layer for extra nutrition and color.
- Ensure to use certified gluten-free soup to keep the dish gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 940 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
