Go Back
simple-and-delicious-tater-tot-casserole-recipe_feature

Ultimate Layered Tater Tot Casserole Recipe - Slow Cooker Perfection

This layered tater tot casserole combines crispy golden tater tots with seasoned ground beef, creamy soup, and melted cheese for the ultimate comfort food experience. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, it can be prepared in a slow cooker or oven for delicious results.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 2 pounds lean ground beef
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of celery soup
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (corn, peas, carrots)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onions and minced garlic. Drain any excess fat, then season with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir in both cans of soup and beef broth until well combined.
  2. Layer Your Casserole: Lightly grease your slow cooker or casserole dish. Spread half of the meat mixture on the bottom, followed by a layer of frozen mixed vegetables. Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheese, then arrange a single layer of tater tots over the cheese.
  3. Repeat the Layering: Repeat the layers with the remaining meat mixture, vegetables, cheese, and top with the rest of the tater tots. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and dust with paprika for color.
  4. Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours. The casserole is ready when the tater tots are golden brown and the filling is bubbly. For extra crispy tots, you can broil for 3-4 minutes after cooking.

Notes

Choose lean ground beef and freshly grated cheese for best results. For crispy tater tots, don't overlap them too much and add frozen (not thawed). If mixture is too wet, add breadcrumbs; if too dry, add more broth.