Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole Recipe
Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that layers crispy tater tots with savory chili and melted cheddar cheese. Finished with a dollop of creamy sour cream and fresh green onions, this casserole is perfect for a cozy family dinner or casual gathering.
- Author: zara
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 bag (about 32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 2 cans (about 15 oz each) chili (with or without beans)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it is hot enough to bake the casserole thoroughly and melt the cheese perfectly.
- Layer Tater Tots: In a large baking dish, spread the frozen tater tots evenly across the bottom, creating a solid base layer for the casserole.
- Add Chili: Pour the chili evenly over the layer of tater tots, distributing it to cover the tots completely for maximum flavor.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the chili layer to add richness and create a beautiful, gooey topping.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to allow it to set and cool slightly before serving.
- Serve: Serve the casserole warm with a generous dollop of sour cream on top and a sprinkle of chopped green onions for added freshness and flavor.
Notes
- You can use chili with or without beans according to your preference.
- For a spicier version, choose a chili with added jalapeños or spices.
- Frozen tater tots can be substituted with homemade tots or seasoned potato cubes if desired.
- Make sure not to overbake to avoid drying out the casserole; cheese should be melted but still gooey.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Keywords: tater tot casserole, chili cheese casserole, comfort food, easy casserole, baked casserole