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Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole

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This Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines savory chili, crispy tater tots, and melted cheese into a crowd-pleasing meal. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings, it’s simple to make, customizable, and budget-friendly.

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup chicken ham, diced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until fully browned.
  3. Add diced chicken ham and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Sauté onions and garlic until onions are translucent.
  5. Mix in kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce; stir well.
  6. Season with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper; stir thoroughly.
  7. Simmer the mixture for 10–15 minutes over low heat, stirring occasionally.
  8. Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
  9. Spread the chili mixture evenly in the bottom of the dish.
  10. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chili layer.
  11. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.
  12. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until cheese is melted and tater tots are golden.
  13. Optional: Broil 2–3 minutes for extra crispiness, watching closely.
  14. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  15. Serve warm with optional toppings like green onions, sour cream, or jalapeños.

Notes

Pre-shredded cheese saves time.

Frozen tater tots do not need thawing.

Customize with vegetables or different cheeses as desired.

Adjust chili spices to taste.

  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 40