Total Time
Prep: 25 min. Cook: 6 hours + standing
Are you ready to prepare a warm, comforting dish that will bring joy to everyone at home? Today, we’re making Crockpot Tater Tot Casserole—a delicious combination of crispy tater tots, melted cheese, and savory ground beef. It’s the perfect meal for when you need something hearty and easy to make.
Under the guidance of Chef Anna, we’re about to embark on a cooking adventure that will fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Simply gather the ingredients, relax, and let the Crockpot do the work! This dish is not only tasty but also a family favorite, guaranteed to make everyone smile. Let’s get started and enjoy every bite together.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey, if preferred)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or use cream of chicken soup for variation)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (optional for a little heat)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or more if you like it extra cheesy)
- 1 package (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Brown the Ground Beef:
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion. Drain any excess grease, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prepare the Casserole Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and diced tomatoes (if using). Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and mix well.
- Layer in the Crockpot:
- Spray your Crockpot with non-stick cooking spray.
- Start by layering half of the frozen tater tots at the bottom of the Crockpot.
- Top with half of the cooked ground beef mixture.
- Repeat with another layer of tater tots and the remaining ground beef mixture.
- Cook:
- Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours, or until the tater tots are fully cooked and golden.
- Add Cheese:
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover and let it melt into the casserole.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, your Crockpot Tater Tot Casserole is ready to serve. Scoop out portions, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness.
Slow-Cooker Tater Tot Casserole Variations
- Add veggies: You can add frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn) for more color and nutrients.
- Spicy : Add a few dashes of hot sauce or use spicy sausage in place of the ground beef.
- Vegan or vegetarian: Use plant-based ground “beef” and vegan cheese for a vegetarian version.
How to Store Slow-Cooker Tater Tot Casserole
toring your Slow-Cooker Tater Tot Casserole properly ensures it stays fresh and delicious for later. Here’s how to do it:
1. Cool Down Completely:
Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation, which could make the dish soggy.
2. Storage Options:
Refrigerator (Short-Term Storage):
- Container: Transfer the casserole into an airtight container, or cover the Crockpot insert tightly with a lid or plastic wrap.
- Shelf Life: It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Freezer (Long-Term Storage):
- Container: For freezing, portion the casserole into airtight, freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. This makes it easier to defrost only what you need.
- Shelf Life: The casserole can be stored in the freezer for up to 2–3 months.
3. Reheating Instructions:
From the Refrigerator:
- Transfer the portion you want to eat into a microwave-safe dish or an oven-safe dish.
- Microwave: Heat for 1–2 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
- Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until heated through.
From the Freezer:
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
- Reheat as described above, adjusting the time if necessary.
Tips for Best Results:
- Avoid refreezing thawed casserole to maintain quality.
- If the casserole seems dry when reheating, add a little splash of milk or broth to refresh it.
- Always check that the casserole is heated thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Proper storage ensures you can enjoy your casserole for days (or even weeks) without compromising its flavor and texture.