Cheesy Ground Beef Tater Tot Casserole

🔹 Quick Snapshot:

• Servings: 6–8
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 35–40 mins
• Protein: ~25g per serving
• Perfect For: Family dinners, freezer meals, comfort cravings

🧾 Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef (93/7 or 90/10)
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or light cream cheese + stock alternative)
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (adds creaminess & protein)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 ½ cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, optional)
• 1/2 tsp salt + 1/4 tsp pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
• 1 bag (about 32 oz) frozen tater tots

👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13” baking dish.
2. In a skillet, brown ground beef with onion and garlic over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Stir in:
   • Cream of mushroom soup
   • Greek yogurt
   • 1 cup shredded cheese
   • Mixed veggies
   • Salt, pepper, paprika
4. Spread this meat mixture evenly into the baking dish.
5. Top with frozen tater tots in a single layer. Sprinkle remaining ½ cup cheese over top.
6. Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes until bubbly and tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
7. Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving!

🔁 Optional Add-ins:

• Sub ground turkey or chicken for leaner version
• Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for spice
• Mix in spinach or kale for extra greens
• Use reduced-fat cheese to lower fat

🧊 Storage:

• Fridge: 4 days (airtight container)
• Freezer: Freeze up to 2 months (wrap tightly, bake from frozen at 375°F for 45–50 min)