Save A comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole layered with savory ground beef, creamy sauce, cheese, and crispy tater tots—perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
This dish has been a favorite in my family for years and always brings everyone to the table with smiles.
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 beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Saute vegetables:
- Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 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.
- Top with tater tots:
- Arrange frozen tater tots in a single, even layer on top.
- Bake first:
- Bake uncovered for 35 minutes.
- Finish baking:
- 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.
Pin it This casserole always brings my family together, reminding us of cozy Sunday dinners and laughter shared over plates heaped with comfort food.
Notes
Serve with a crisp green salad for a complete meal and consider using smoked paprika to add an extra layer of flavor.
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. Always check labels for gluten and soy if allergies are a concern.
Pin it 
Enjoy your family's new favorite comfort food with this easy-to-make, satisfying casserole.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I substitute ground turkey for the beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a lighter alternative and keeps the dish moist and flavorful.
- → What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
Cream of chicken soup can be used as a substitute to slightly alter the flavor profile while maintaining creaminess.
- → How do I get the tater tots crispy on top?
Baking the casserole uncovered allows the tater tots to crisp up nicely; adding cheese on top during the final bake enhances browning.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely, assemble the layers and refrigerate before baking. Add extra baking time if going straight from fridge to oven.
- → What sides complement this hearty main dish?
A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables provide a refreshing balance to the rich casserole.