Description
This Crispy Tot Chili Casserole is a comforting and hearty American main course that combines a savory chili base with crispy golden tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping, this dish offers a deliciously satisfying blend of flavors and textures with a simple baking method.
Ingredients
Scale
Chili Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) chili beans, undrained
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 3 cups frozen tater tots
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
- Sour cream, for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Meat and Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey with chopped onion and minced garlic until the meat is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Add Chili Ingredients: Stir in the chili beans (with liquid), drained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and for the flavors to meld.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the prepared chili mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly for consistent layering.
- Top with Tater Tots: Arrange an even layer of frozen tater tots over the chili base, ensuring coverage for a crispy topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole uncovered in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the tater tots are crispy and golden brown.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions and a dollop of sour cream if desired for extra flavor and creaminess.
Notes
- Add a spicy kick by incorporating diced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce into the chili mixture.
- For a meat-free version, use vegetarian chili and plant-based meat alternatives in place of ground beef or turkey.
- This casserole reheats well, making it excellent for meal prep and leftovers.
- Using gluten-free tater tots can make this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.
