Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish layered with seasoned ground beef, zesty chili flavors, and plenty of melted cheddar cheese. Crispy tater tots bake on top to create a golden, crunchy layer that contrasts perfectly with the rich, savory filling. Easy to make in one pan, Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole is a family-friendly favorite for weeknights, potlucks, or cozy dinners that call for warm, satisfying comfort food.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole
- It’s a comforting, hearty meal that warms your soul.
- Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal prep time.
- Kid-approved and great for family gatherings.
- Versatile—customize with your favorite toppings!
- Leftovers taste even better the next day!
Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden.
- Step 2: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
- Step 3: Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds more, stirring constantly. This adds a wonderful flavor to your dish.
- Step 4: Add ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, chili powder, and paprika. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat to keep it light.
- Step 5: Stir in the can of chili with beans and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes. This will meld all those delicious flavors together.
- Step 6: Spread the beef and chili mixture evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish. This is the hearty base of your casserole.
- Step 7: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the meat layer. Cheese makes everything better!
- Step 8: Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese. This will create a crispy topping that everyone will love.
- Step 9: Bake for 25 minutes, then remove and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese on top of the tots. Yum!
- Step 10: Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10–12 minutes, until the tots are golden and the cheese is melted. Your casserole is almost ready!
- Step 11: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to serve. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400 |
| Fat | 25g |
| Protein | 20g |
| Carbs | 30g |
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a scrumptious Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole!
- 1 lb ground beef – for a hearty base
- 1 small onion – diced, adds flavor
- 2 cloves garlic – minced, for aroma
- 1 (15 oz) can chili with beans – brings the chili goodness
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – for that melty topping
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots – crispy texture on top
- 1 tbsp olive oil – to sauté the onion and garlic
- Salt and pepper – to taste, for seasoning
- 1 tsp chili powder – optional, for extra kick
- 1/2 tsp paprika – optional, for a smoky flavor
How to Make Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole
This delightful Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole is a fun and easy dish to whip up! With a preparation time of about 15 minutes and a cooking time of 35–37 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve in no time. Don’t forget to let it rest for 5 minutes before diving in!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
Step 3: Add Garlic
Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds more, stirring constantly. This adds a wonderful flavor to your dish.
Step 4: Brown the Beef
Add ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, chili powder, and paprika. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat to keep it light.
Step 5: Mix in Chili
Stir in the can of chili with beans and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes. This will meld all those delicious flavors together.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the beef and chili mixture evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish. This is the hearty base of your casserole.
Step 7: Add Cheese
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the meat layer. Cheese makes everything better!
Step 8: Top with Tater Tots
Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese. This will create a crispy topping that everyone will love.
Step 9: Bake
Bake for 25 minutes, then remove and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese on top of the tots. Yum!
Step 10: Final Bake
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10–12 minutes, until the tots are golden and the cheese is melted. Your casserole is almost ready!
Step 11: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to serve. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Main Course |
| Cuisine | American |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 37 minutes |
| Extra Time | 5 minutes (resting) |
| Total Time | 57 minutes |
| Dietary | Not specified |
| Serves | 6 |
| Best Served | Hot and cheesy |
Pro Tips for Making Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole
- Opt for frozen tater tots for a crispy texture.
- Mix in black beans for added protein and fiber.
- Use a blend of cheeses for a richer flavor.
- Top with fresh green onions for a pop of color.
- Let it cool slightly before serving for easier slicing.
How to Serve this Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole
- Top with fresh chopped cilantro for a burst of flavor.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Pair with a side of crispy tortilla chips for extra crunch.
- Offer a side salad with a zesty vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Drizzle with hot sauce for those who like it spicy.
- Enjoy with a refreshing iced tea or lemonade to cool things down.
Make Ahead and Storage
You can easily prepare and store your Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole:
Storing Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole Leftovers
- Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole
- Cool the casserole completely before freezing.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cover with foil to retain moisture while reheating.
- Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What ingredients are needed to make Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole?
To make Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole, you will need tater tots, chili (canned or homemade), shredded cheese (like cheddar or Monterey Jack), and optional toppings such as sour cream, green onions, or jalapeños. You can also add cooked ground beef or turkey for extra protein if desired.
2. What is the step-by-step process for preparing Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole?
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, layer the chili at the bottom, followed by a layer of tater tots. Sprinkle a generous amount of cheese on top. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving, and enjoy your delicious casserole!
3. Can I customize Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole with different types of cheese or meat?
Absolutely! This casserole is very versatile. You can use any cheese you like, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor. For meat, feel free to substitute ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or even a meat alternative for a vegetarian option. Get creative with your toppings too!
4. How can I store and reheat leftover Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole?
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal. Enjoy your leftovers!
Final Thoughts
Get ready to dive into a bowl of comfort with this Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole! It’s a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So gather your loved ones, whip up this easy recipe, and enjoy the smiles around the table. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did!