A warm, simple meal that feeds a crowd and brings comfort to the table.

introduction

Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole is a hearty, easy dish that many families love. It uses frozen tater tots, canned chili, cheese, sour cream, and green onions. You can make it fast and serve it hot. Kids and adults like it.

why make this recipe

It is quick to make.
It uses few, easy ingredients you likely have on hand.
It feeds a family and works well for potlucks.
It is hearty, cheesy, and comforting.

how to make Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole

Follow simple layers and bake until the cheese melts. The steps are easy and the dish comes out hot, cheesy, and tasty.

Ingredients :

1 bag of frozen tater tots
2 cans of chili (with or without beans)
2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup of sour cream
1/2 cup of chopped green onions

Directions :

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large baking dish, spread the frozen tater tots evenly across the bottom.
Pour the chili over the tater tots, spreading it evenly.
Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Serve with a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle with chopped green onions.

how to serve Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole

Serve hot from the oven. Add a spoonful of sour cream on top and sprinkle the green onions. You can add chopped tomatoes or salsa on the side. Cut into squares or scoop with a big spoon.

how to store Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole

Cool the casserole to room temperature.
Cover the dish tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container.
Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or until hot through. You can also microwave single servings.

tips to make Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole

Use a large baking dish so the tater tots stay crisp on the edges.
Do not thaw the tater tots before baking; bake them frozen.
Use good quality shredded cheddar for best melt and flavor.
If your chili is very thin, drain a bit so the casserole is not soggy.
Let it rest a few minutes after baking so servings hold shape.

variation (if any)

Add cooked ground beef or browned breakfast sausage under the chili for more meat.
Mix in diced bell peppers or onions for extra veg.
Use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
Top with crushed corn chips for a crunchy finish.

FAQs

Q: Can I use homemade chili?
A: Yes. Homemade chili works well. Make sure it is not too watery.

Q: Can I make this ahead and bake later?
A: Yes. Assemble in a baking dish, cover, and refrigerate. Bake longer by a few minutes if cold from the fridge.

Q: Is this freezer friendly?
A: You can freeze the assembled casserole (before baking) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Q: Can I use different cheese?
A: Yes. Try a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack or mozzarella for milder flavor.

Q: How many does this serve?
A: A standard bag of tater tots casserole usually serves 6 to 8 people, depending on portion size.

Conclusion

For a quick, family-friendly meal you can make any night, this Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole fits the bill. For more ideas on similar weeknight casseroles, see Easy Weeknight Chili Tater Tot Casserole – Practically Homemade. If you want a twist with hot dogs or a slightly different take, check out Chili Cheese Dog Tater Tot Casserole – Cooking in the Midwest.