Classic Tater Tot Casserole (Budget-Friendly & Filling)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to fully preheat while you prepare the casserole components.
2. Cook the Beef:
   In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain off any excess grease. Season the meat with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Transfer the cooked and seasoned beef into the bottom of a 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly to form the base layer.
3. Mix the Sauce:
   In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the can of cream soup, sour cream, and milk until smooth. This creamy mixture binds the casserole and adds richness to every bite.
4. Layer the Casserole:
   Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the cooked beef in the casserole dish. Then, scatter the drained canned green beans (or frozen green beans, thawed) over the creamy layer. Follow with an even layer of shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Add the Tater Tots:
   Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer across the top of the cheese. No need to thaw—baking them straight from frozen gives the crispiest results.