Spicy Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole

A quick, comforting tater tot casserole the whole family will love.

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

introduction

Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole is simple and filling. You can make it fast and serve a crowd. It uses frozen tater tots and canned chili, so you save time. If you like easy classics, try Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars for dessert after this meal.

why make this recipe

Make this recipe when you want warm, cheesy comfort with little work. Kids and adults usually love it. It is great for weeknights, potlucks, or game day. You make one dish and feed many. It also uses pantry items and a frozen bag, so shopping is easy. For a sweet finish after this, consider Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars.

how to make Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole

1. Preheat oven and get a large baking dish.
2. Lay the frozen tater tots in the dish in one even layer.
3. Pour the canned chili on top of the tater tots and spread it out.
4. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the chili.
5. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Let the casserole cool a few minutes, then add sour cream and green onions to serve.

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 :

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large baking dish, spread the frozen tater tots evenly across the bottom.
3. Pour the chili over the tater tots, spreading it evenly.
4. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
7. 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. Scoop portions onto plates and add a spoon of sour cream and green onions on top. You can also serve it with a side salad or raw veggies for crunch. For a sweet dip to share later, try Caramel Apple Cheesecake Dip.

how to store Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole

Cool the casserole to room temperature. Cover with foil or put in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.

tips to make Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole

• Use chili with beans or without, based on what your family likes.
• Spread tater tots in one even layer so they cook evenly.
• If you want extra crisp, bake uncovered and broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.
• Add a little extra cheese on top if you like it extra gooey.

variation (if any)

• Add cooked ground beef or cooked sausage for a meatier version.
• Mix in diced bell peppers or onions under the cheese for more veggies.
• Use different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick.

FAQs

Q: Can I use homemade chili?
A: Yes. Homemade chili works fine. Use about 4 cups to cover the tater tots.

Q: Do I need to thaw the tater tots first?
A: No. Use them frozen. They bake to a crisp in the oven.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Assemble and keep covered in the fridge. Bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes if cold.

Q: How do I make it spicier?
A: Add chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or use spicy chili and pepper jack cheese.

Conclusion

For another fun twist on tater tot casserole, see this Chili Cheese Dog Tater Tot Casserole – Cooking in the Midwest: Chili Cheese Dog Tater Tot Casserole – Cooking in the Midwest.