Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole
This easy and comforting casserole features layers of crunchy tater tots, hearty chili, and gooey cheddar cheese, perfect for busy weeknights and potlucks.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 bag frozen tater tots (about 32–36 oz) For extra-crisp results, use a brand you like or par-bake for 5–7 minutes.
- 2 cans chili (choose with beans or without, roughly 15–19 oz each) Substitute turkey chili or vegetarian chili to suit diet needs.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Sharp cheddar adds more flavor; use a Mexican blend for a different profile.
- 1 cup sour cream Or Greek yogurt for a tangy, higher-protein swap.
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions Use chives if you prefer a milder onion note.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Position a rack in the center.
- Spread the frozen tater tots in a single even layer across the bottom of a large baking dish (9×13-inch works well).
- Evenly pour the two cans of chili over the tater tots, smoothing with a spoon so the chili covers most tots.
- Sprinkle the 2 cups of shredded cheddar evenly over the chili.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and starting to brown at the edges.
- Remove the casserole and let it rest for 5 minutes to firm up slightly.
- Serve each portion with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped green onions.
Notes
If your chili is very runny, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes on the stovetop to thicken before spooning it over the tots. For extra-even browning, rotate the dish halfway through baking. Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3–4 days.