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Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole

A comforting one-pan meal featuring savory chili, melty cheese, and crispy tater tots. Perfect for family dinners and potlucks.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef, lean (85–90%) for flavor without excess grease
  • 1 medium onion, diced adds sweetness and depth
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced for aromatic oomph
  • 1 can (15 oz) chili with beans or 2 cups homemade chili base of flavor
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom or cheddar soup creamy binder
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese melty topping and cheesy layers
  • 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots provides crunchy topping after baking
  • 1/2 cup milk to loosen the soup and chili for better layering
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika optional, adds warmth
  • Salt and pepper to taste season as you go
  • Optional: sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, or green onions for garnish

Method
 

Preheat and prep
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C). Lightly grease your 9x13 baking dish.
Brown the beef
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, diced onion, and garlic. Cook until beef is browned and onions are translucent. Drain excess fat if needed.
Combine chili and creamy binder
  1. In a mixing bowl, stir together the canned chili (or homemade chili) and condensed soup with milk until smooth. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Layer the casserole
  1. Spread the beef mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared dish. Pour the chili-soup mixture over the beef and smooth it out. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar on top of that layer.
Add tater tots
  1. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer to cover the entire surface. Tots can touch for a fully covered top.
Bake and finish
  1. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until bubbling and edges are hot. Remove from oven, sprinkle remaining cheddar over the tots, and return to oven for 5-7 minutes until cheese melts and tots are golden. For extra crisp, broil 1-2 minutes, watch carefully.

Notes

Prevent sogginess by draining browned beef well and avoiding over-soucing. For crispier texture, bake uncovered and finish under the broiler. Use freshly shredded cheese for better melt and creaminess. Can be made vegetarian with plant-based ingredients.