Why Make This Recipe
Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole is a perfect dish for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It is hearty, filling, and easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, this casserole can feed a crowd or provide leftovers for the week. The combination of crispy tater tots, savory chili, and melted cheese is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love!
How to Make Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole
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 the casserole warm and fresh out of the oven. It pairs well with a side salad for a complete meal. You can also serve it as a game-day snack or at potlucks. Don’t forget to add a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of green onions on top for extra flavor!
How to Store Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole
If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the casserole before baking. Just wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw and bake as directed.
Tips to Make Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole
- For a spicier kick, use spicy chili or add diced jalapeños to the top.
- You can mix in some cooked ground beef or turkey for extra protein.
- Experiment with different cheese types, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, for different flavors.
Variation
You can customize this dish by adding vegetables like corn or bell peppers to the chili. You can also swap out the tater tots for hash browns if you prefer.
FAQs
1. Can I use homemade chili?
Yes, homemade chili works great in this casserole! Just make sure it is thick enough to hold up during baking.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead, cover it, and store it in the fridge until you are ready to bake it.
3. Is this dish vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, if you use vegetarian chili, this dish is completely vegetarian. Just make sure to check the ingredients on the chili cans.
Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients
Casserole Ingredients
- 1 bag frozen tater tots Use your favorite brand.
- 2 cans chili (with or without beans) You can use homemade chili if preferred.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Feel free to experiment with different cheese types.
- 1 cup sour cream For serving.
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions Used for garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- 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.
Baking
- 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.
Serving
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle with chopped green onions.