Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef and Rotel

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef and Rotel is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines crispy tater tots, savory beef, zesty tomatoes with green chilies, and gooey melted cheese. It’s a one-pan wonder with bold flavor and hearty texture—perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or when you need a cozy, filling meal that satisfies every craving.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

frozen tater totsground beef (lean preferred)onion (chopped)garlic (minced)Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained)cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soupshredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)sour cream (optional)saltblack pepperpaprika (optional for added flavor)

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until beef is browned and onions are soft.

Add garlic and cook for another minute. Drain excess fat if needed.

Stir in the Rotel, cream soup, sour cream (if using), salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix until combined and heated through.

Remove from heat and fold in 1 to 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese.

Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Arrange tater tots in a single layer over the beef mixture.

Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the tater tots.

Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy and the cheese is bubbly.

Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6-8 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Cooling time: 5-10 minutes
Total time: 55-65 minutes

Variations

Add chopped green beans or corn for extra veggies.
Use ground turkey or sausage instead of beef.
Top with jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat.
Swap cheddar for pepper jack or Colby for a flavor twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions until hot.
Freeze the assembled but unbaked casserole for up to 2 months; bake from frozen, adding extra time.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of Rotel?

Rotel adds flavor and heat, but you can substitute with diced tomatoes and chopped green chilies.

Is it spicy?

Mildly spicy—choose mild Rotel or use regular diced tomatoes for a no-heat version.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Do I have to use canned soup?

It helps with creaminess, but homemade white sauce or cream cheese can work too.

Can I cook it in a slow cooker?

Yes, layer the ingredients and cook on low for 4–5 hours or until hot and bubbly.

What cheese melts best?

Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack or mozzarella also work well.

Can I add beans?

Yes, black or pinto beans make it heartier and stretch the servings.

Will the tater tots stay crispy?

They stay crisp on top if baked uncovered; for extra crunch, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, just stir them into the beef mixture before baking.

Is it kid-friendly?

Absolutely—kids love the crispy tots and cheesy flavor.

Conclusion

Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef and Rotel is the ultimate comfort food with layers of flavor, texture, and cheesy goodness. Whether you’re feeding a family or stocking up for leftovers, this easy-to-make dish is a go-to for hearty, delicious satisfaction. Serve it once, and it might just become a weekly favorite.

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