You only need a few basic ingredients to make this hearty casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 bag tater tots
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Ground Beef
Ground beef forms the savory foundation of the casserole. Choose the type you normally enjoy for family meals. If your beef produces a lot of grease while cooking, drain the excess before assembling the casserole.
Tater Tots
The tater tots create the signature crispy topping. Arrange them in a reasonably even layer so they have enough exposure to the oven’s heat to become golden and crunchy.
Cream of Mushroom Soup
Cream of mushroom soup provides the creamy element that brings the beef and cheese together. It also helps keep the casserole moist while it bakes.
Shredded Cheese
Cheese adds richness and creates the gooey layer that makes this casserole so satisfying. Cheddar is a classic option, but you can experiment with other melting cheeses.
Onion
Chopped onion adds sweetness and savory flavor to the beef. Cooking it together with the ground beef allows the flavors to blend naturally.