Can I use canned chili instead of homemade chili?

Yes! Using canned chili is a quick and easy shortcut for chili cheese tater tot casserole. It saves time while keeping the flavor rich. You can enhance it by adding cumin or a splash of hot sauce.

How do I keep the tater tots crispy in a casserole?

Bake the casserole uncovered so steam doesn’t soften the tater tots. Arrange them in a single layer and broil for the last few minutes to achieve extra crispiness.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes. You can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it. Let it rest at room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking.

What sides go best with chili cheese tater tot casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted corn, or steamed broccoli. For heartier meals, add cornbread or garlic rolls.

Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole – 5 Reasons It’s Pure Comfort Joy

Name: Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 can (15 oz) chili with beans or 2 cups homemade chili; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tsp chili powder; 1/2 tsp cumin; 1/4 tsp smoked paprika; 2 cups shredded cheddar or Colby Jack cheese; 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots; Salt and pepper to taste; Nonstick spray or oil for baking dish; Optional: 1/2 cup diced bell pepper, jalapeños, black beans, or corn

Description

If you’ve ever craved something warm, cheesy, and hearty, this chili cheese tater tot casserole will become your go-to comfort dish. Crispy tater tots layered over rich chili and melted cheese make it a cozy, family-favorite meal.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef

1 can (15 oz) chili with beans or 2 cups homemade chili

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tsp chili powder

1/2 tsp cumin

1/4 tsp smoked paprika

2 cups shredded cheddar or Colby Jack cheese

1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots

Salt and pepper to taste

Nonstick spray or oil for baking dish

Optional: 1/2 cup diced bell pepper, jalapeños, black beans, or corn

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.

2. In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned; drain excess grease.

3. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened, then stir in chili powder, cumin, and paprika.

4. Mix in chili and season with salt and pepper; simmer briefly.

5. Spread chili mixture evenly in baking dish.

6. Sprinkle half the cheese over chili, then layer tater tots evenly on top.

7. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes until tots are golden and crisp.

8. Sprinkle remaining cheese over top and let melt for 5 minutes before serving.

9. Garnish with sour cream, green onions, or jalapeños if desired.

Notes

For best crispiness, bake uncovered and broil for 2–3 minutes at the end. You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. Leftovers keep for up to 4 days in the fridge or 3 months frozen.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 480
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 890 mg
Fat: 30 g
Saturated Fat: 14 g
Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
Trans Fat: 0.5 g
Carbohydrates: 32 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 21 g
Cholesterol: 85 mg