Name: Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
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

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

SEO keywords:

chili cheese tater tot casserole
tater tot casserole
easy family casserole
weeknight dinner recipe
kid-friendly casserole
budget-friendly casserole
frozen tater tot recipe

I grew up on dinners that needed to be fast, filling, and forgiving — and this chili cheese tater tot casserole checks every box. It’s a layered, no-fuss bake: frozen tater tots, canned chili, gooey cheddar, and simple toppings that make it a go-to for busy weeknights, potlucks, or when you want something that both kids and adults will happily eat. Easy to scale and even easier to customize, it’s the kind of casserole I return to when I want comfort without a lot of fuss.

Why you’ll love this dish

This casserole is quick, comforting, and kind to the wallet — and the crispy-tot, melty-cheese combo is basically irresistible. It’s also very forgiving: use chili with or without beans, swap cheeses, or add a layer of onions or bell peppers if you like. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or anytime you need a one-dish family pleaser.

“A total crowd-pleaser — my kids ask for this every week. So simple and delicious!”

If you’re looking for other budget-conscious casserole ideas to rotate through your menu, check out budget-friendly chicken casserole ideas that pair well with this kind of comfort cooking.

How this recipe comes together

The method is straightforward: layer frozen tots, pour canned chili over them, blanket with cheddar, bake until bubbling, and finish with sour cream and green onions. No pre-cooking required, which keeps cleanup minimal. The oven does the work, crisping the tots at the bottom while the cheese melts on top for that classic casserole texture contrast.

What you’ll need

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

Substitution tips:

Cheese: Swap in Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend for different flavors.
Chili: Use a homemade chili or a drained meat sauce if you prefer less liquid.
Dairy-free: Try a plant-based shredded cheese and dairy-free sour cream for a vegan option.

Step-by-step instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Lightly grease a large baking dish. Spread the frozen tater tots in an even layer across the bottom.
Pour both cans of chili over the tater tots, spreading it so the tots are evenly covered.
Sprinkle the 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the chili.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly and the edges are hot.
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to set.
Serve each portion with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped green onions.

Best ways to enjoy it

This casserole pairs well with bright, fresh sides that cut the richness. Try a crisp green salad with a vinaigrette, pickled jalapeños for heat, or roasted corn for extra sweetness. It’s great for casual dinner nights, game-day spreads, or potlucks — slice into squares for easy serving.

For more ideas on family-friendly casseroles and easy sides that feed a crowd, take a look at these easy chicken casseroles for families to rotate through your weeknight lineup.

Topping ideas:

Sliced avocado or guacamole
Crushed tortilla chips or potato sticks for extra crunch
Hot sauce or salsa for a flavor kick

Storage and reheating tips

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes until warm, or reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven covered with foil for 15–20 minutes.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cooled casserole in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating from frozen: Bake covered at 350°F (175°C) for 40–50 minutes, then remove the foil and bake 10 minutes more to refresh the top.

Helpful cooking tips

Use a shallow, wide baking dish so the tots crisp more evenly.
If your chili is very runny, drain a bit before pouring to avoid a soggy casserole.
Let it rest 5 minutes after baking — that short pause helps the casserole set and makes serving cleaner.
For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching closely so the cheese doesn’t burn.

Recipe variations

Beefy layer-up: Brown 1 lb of ground beef with taco seasoning, drain, and mix with the canned chili for extra texture.
Tex-Mex: Add a can of drained black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning to the chili layer.
Breakfast version: Top with scrambled eggs and serve with salsa for a brunch twist.
Veggie-forward: Use a plant-based chili and vegan cheese for a vegetarian option, and add diced bell pepper to the chili layer.

FAQ

Q: Can I assemble this ahead of time?
A: Yes — assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the bake time if starting from cold.

Q: Will the tater tots get soggy under the chili?
A: To minimize sogginess, use a shallow dish and spread the chili thinly. A brief broil at the end also helps re-crisp the top layer of tots.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Most tater tots and canned chilis are gluten-free, but always check labels. Use certified gluten-free products to be safe.

Internal link suggestions (anchor text only):

Budget-friendly chicken casserole ideas that feed a family
Easy chicken casseroles for busy weeknights