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A delicious Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole is pictured, perfect for a comforting family meal.

Best Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole

This chili cheese tater tot casserole recipe elevates a classic comfort food. Crispy pre-baked tater tots are layered over a flavorful chili and topped with freshly grated cheddar cheese, creating a satisfying and crowd-pleasing dish.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 pound ground beef 80/20 blend
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese freshly grated
  • Optional toppings: sour cream
  • Optional toppings: chopped green onions
  • Optional toppings: pickled jalapeños

Equipment

  • baking sheet
  • large skillet
  • Spoon
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Oven
  • Cheese grater
  • measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread tater tots in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  2. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown and slightly crispy.
  3. While the tater tots are baking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and green bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Add ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
  5. Stir in kidney beans, black beans, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes and green chilies, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
  7. Pour the chili mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  8. Arrange the pre-baked tater tots in a single layer on top of the chili.
  9. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tater tots.
  10. Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
  11. Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with sour cream, chopped green onions, and pickled jalapeños, if desired.

Notes

Pre-baking the tater tots is crucial to prevent a soggy casserole. Freshly grated cheese melts better and has a richer flavor than pre-shredded cheese. Don't overbake the casserole, or the chili may dry out and the tater tots may become tough. Allowing the casserole to cool slightly before serving helps the flavors meld and the structure set.