Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole – Easy Tater Tot Casserole Recipe
This Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mashup! Layers of savory chili, gooey melted cheese, and crispy tater tots come together in one irresistible bake. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or game day gatherings—this crowd-pleaser is easy to make and even easier to love.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- 9x13-inch casserole dish
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- ½ cup water
- 32 oz bag frozen tater tots
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (preferably freshly shredded)
Optional:
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup beans (black or kidney)
- Sliced jalapeños, sour cream, green onions, avocado for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
- Brown the beef: In a large skillet, cook ground beef with onion and garlic over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Make the chili: Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, tomato sauce, and water. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened. Add Worcestershire sauce or beans if using.
- Layer the casserole:Spread half the tater tots in the bottom of the dish.Spoon chili mixture over tots.Sprinkle 1 cup of cheese over chili.Top with remaining tater tots and finish with remaining cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Cool slightly before serving. Garnish with sour cream, jalapeños, or green onions if desired.
Notes
- For crispier tots, bake them separately for 20 minutes before layering.
- Make it vegetarian with meatless crumbles or beans.
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- Freeze leftovers for up to 2 months; reheat in oven for best texture.
- Great with a side salad or fruit for balance.