Overhead view of golden cheesy tater tot casserole baked to perfection, topped with melted cheese and parsley.

Crockpot Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

by

Creamy, cheesy & family-approved

This Crockpot Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it comfort meal! Layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, melty cheese, and crispy golden tater tots all slow-cooked to perfection it’s a family favorite that everyone asks for seconds of. This Emma’s Cake Studio version is made in the crockpot for maximum ease and flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or potluck dinners. Creamy, cheesy, and totally satisfying this casserole hits every comfort food note!

Time Breakdown

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4–5 hours on low (or 2–3 on high)
  • Total Time: 5 hours
  • Servings: 6

Ingredients List

For the Casserole

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
  • 1 (16 oz) bag frozen mixed vegetables (optional, for extra color & nutrients)
  • 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

  • Large skillet
  • 6-quart crockpot or slow cooker
  • Mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups & spoons

Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions

  1. Cook the beef:
    In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned. Season with salt and pepper. Drain excess fat.
  2. Mix the sauce:
    In a bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and ½ cup cheese. Stir in the cooked beef and vegetables (if using).
  3. Assemble in the crockpot:
    Spray your slow cooker with nonstick spray. Spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom. Layer tater tots on top in a single layer.
  4. Cook:
    Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until tater tots are golden and casserole is bubbly.
  5. Finish with cheese:
    Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top, cover, and cook for another 10–15 minutes until melted. ✨
  6. Serve:
    Spoon into bowls, garnish with parsley if desired, and enjoy your creamy, cheesy comfort meal!

Pro Tips

  • Crispier tots: Broil the top layer for 3–5 minutes before serving if your crockpot insert is oven-safe. 🔥
  • Add a kick: Mix in a pinch of chili powder or hot sauce for a little spice.
  • Vegetarian twist: Use plant-based “beef” and cream of mushroom soup for a meatless version.
  • Freezer-friendly: Assemble the casserole ahead of time, freeze, and thaw overnight before cooking.

Nutrition Table

Serving SizeCaloriesProteinCarbsFatFiberSugar
1 serving48027g32g28g3g4g