Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole is a warm, cheesy dish with crispy tater tots and hearty chili. It comes together fast and feeds a family with little fuss. You can use chili with or without beans. Top with sour cream and green onions for a fresh bite. For an easy breakfast twist, check ideas like these egg bites with cottage cheese to use some leftovers the next day.
Why make this recipe
This dish is fast, filling, and loved by kids and adults. It uses easy ingredients you can keep in the pantry and freezer. The bake time is short and cleanup is simple. If you like simple comfort food, this recipe will fit your weeknight or potluck plan. You can also pair it with a light side like a flatbread — see this cottage cheese flatbread recipe for a quick side idea.
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.
If you want a handheld idea for a picnic or to use with the casserole, try serving it near a simple warm sandwich like a grilled cheese burrito; this grilled cheese burrito makes a fun side.
How to serve Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole
Cut the casserole into squares or scoop with a large spoon. Serve warm on plates or in bowls. Add a spoon of sour cream and sprinkle with green onions. You can offer hot sauce or ketchup on the side for those who want more flavor.
How to store Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole
Let the casserole cool to room temperature. Cover tightly with foil or store in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or until warm. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe dish. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Tips to make Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole
- Use good quality chili for best flavor. Canned chili works great for fast meals.
- For extra crisp, bake uncovered the last 5 minutes.
- Do not overfill the dish so everything heats evenly.
- Let it sit a few minutes after baking so it firms up and slices cleanly.
- Use sharp cheddar for a bolder cheese taste.
Variation
- Add cooked ground beef or browned sausage under the chili for more meat.
- Mix in a can of drained corn or chopped bell peppers for texture.
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Use tater tot halves or hash browns for a different texture.
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
A: Yes. Cook small diced potatoes first until tender, then layer and bake as the recipe says.
Q: Do I need to thaw the tater tots?
A: No. Put the frozen tater tots straight in the baking dish. They bake from frozen.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover it, and keep it in the fridge. Bake when you are ready.
Q: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
A: Yes. It is mild, cheesy, and easy for kids to eat.
Q: How many people does this feed?
A: A standard 9×13 dish feeds about 6 people, depending on portion size.
Conclusion
This Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole is simple, comforting, and quick to make for family meals or gatherings. For more ideas and similar casseroles, see a hearty take on the theme at Chili Cheese Dog Tater Tot Casserole – Cooking in the Midwest, another version with step-by-step photos at Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole – Simply Scratch Made, and an easy weeknight style at Easy Weeknight Chili Tater Tot Casserole – Practically Homemade.
Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 bag frozen tater tots No need to thaw
- 2 cans chili Can be with or without beans
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Sharp cheddar for a bolder taste
- 1 cup sour cream For serving
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions For garnish and serving
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.
- 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
- Cut the casserole into squares or scoop with a large spoon.
- Serve warm on plates or in bowls with a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle with chopped green onions.