Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole

There’s just something about a bubbly, cheesy casserole that feels like a hug in a dish, and this cheeseburger tater tot casserole is all of that and more. It’s hearty, satisfying, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect weeknight dinner or weekend comfort food.

Picture this: seasoned ground beef simmered with onion, garlic, and taco spices, all wrapped in a creamy tomato sauce. Then we blanket it with shredded cheese, top it with golden tater tots, and bake until crisp and melty. Every bite has the perfect balance of cheesy, savory, and just a little tang from fresh garnishes.

I love serving this on a night when everyone’s craving something filling and cozy. Bonus points if the weather’s chilly or we’re all curled up for a movie night. It’s easy enough for a weeknight, but crowd-pleasing enough to bring to a potluck.

Ingredients

For the Beef Filling

• 2 tablespoons butter
• ½ large onion, diced
• 2 pounds 90/10 ground beef
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2–3 tablespoons homemade)
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 cup half and half
• ½ cup tomato sauce
• Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Top Layer

• 2–3 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
• 32 ounces frozen tater tots

For Garnish

• Sour cream or nonfat Greek yogurt
• Cherry tomatoes, diced
• Green onions, thinly sliced

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Aromatics & Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
3. Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until fully browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat if needed.
4. Season & Build the Sauce: Sprinkle taco seasoning over the beef and stir in tomato paste. Cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch, half and half, and tomato sauce. Pour the mixture into the skillet, stirring until thickened and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the Casserole: Spread the beef mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese over the top, then arrange tater tots in a single layer across the surface.
6. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crisp.
7. Add the Final Touch: Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with the remaining cheese. Let it melt over the hot tater tots.
8. Garnish & Serve: Spoon into bowls or plates and top with sour cream (or Greek yogurt), diced cherry tomatoes, and green onions. Enjoy hot.