Description
Chili Tot Bake is a comforting casserole that layers hearty, seasoned ground meat chili with crispy tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. This easy-to-make dish combines savory flavors and satisfying textures, perfect for a family-friendly weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chili Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) chili beans, undrained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel)
- 1 packet chili seasoning mix
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Optional Garnishes
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking or casserole dish with cooking spray or a light coating of oil.
- Cook the Ground Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey, breaking it apart with a spoon. Add the chopped onion and cook until the onion softens and the meat is fully browned, about 5 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary.
- Make the Chili Base: Stir in the chili seasoning mix, chili beans (along with their liquid), and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
- Assemble the Bake: Pour the chili mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the top of the chili, covering the surface completely.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Add Cheese: Remove the casserole from the oven and evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots. Return the dish to the oven for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, top with sour cream and chopped green onions for added flavor and garnish.
Notes
- For extra heat, add a chopped jalapeño to the chili mixture or use a spicy chili seasoning packet.
- Use leftover chili for a quick alternative—just layer it with tater tots and cheese before baking.
- Feel free to customize by adding black olives, corn, or diced bell peppers to the chili base for more texture and flavor.
- Make sure to drain excess fat from the cooked meat to avoid a greasy casserole.
- Letting the bake rest before serving helps it set and makes serving easier.
