Slow Cooker Tater Tot Casserole
If there’s one dish that defines classic Midwestern comfort food, it’s a hearty tater tot casserole. This slow cooker version brings back memories of church potlucks and family dinners, but with a modern, no-stress twist. Using just 5 simple ingredients, this crockpot tater tot casserole practically cooks itself, making it perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy Sundays at home.
Frozen tater tots form the crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside base, while seasoned ground beef and a creamy, cheesy sauce create a rich, satisfying meal the whole family will love. Just layer everything in the slow cooker, set it, and come back to a warm, filling dinner that tastes like home.
This is true dump-and-go slow cooker comfort food budget-friendly, kid-approved, and perfect for feeding a crowd with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Tater Tot Casserole:
Only 5 ingredients no complicated prep
Easy slow cooker meal perfect for busy days
Hearty & filling a complete meal in one pot
Family-friendly comfort food everyone enjoys
Budget-friendly dinner using pantry staples
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
1½ pounds ground beef, browned and drained
1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (mild or medium)
½ cup milk
1 (32-ounce) bag frozen tater tots
Instructions:
Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess grease and set aside.
In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese until smooth.
Lightly grease the slow cooker. Arrange a single layer of frozen tater tots across the bottom.
Evenly spread the cooked ground beef over the tater tots.
Pour the creamy soup mixture over the beef, gently spreading it to cover all layers.
Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until hot and bubbly and the tater tots are tender.
For a firmer top, uncover during the last 20–30 minutes on HIGH to allow steam to escape. Serve warm.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair this slow cooker tater tot casserole with simple sides like:
Steamed green beans or buttered peas
A crisp green salad
Dinner rolls or sliced white bread for soaking up the sauce
These classic sides balance the rich, creamy flavors and round out the meal perfectly.
Variations & Tips:
Swap cream of mushroom for cream of chicken or cream of celery
Add frozen peas or mixed vegetables for extra color and nutrition
Sprinkle extra cheddar on top during the last 20 minutes for a cheesier finish
Substitute ground turkey or cooked sausage if desired
For crispier tots, broil individual servings briefly before serving
This is a forgiving, adaptable slow cooker casserole recipe perfect for using what you already have and tailoring it to your family’s tastes.
