Description
This Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole is cozy, cheesy comfort food at its best. A hearty layer of chili, melty cheese, and golden crispy tater tots come together in one pan for a family-friendly meal that’s easy, satisfying, and always a hit.
Ingredients
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2 ½ cups thick chili (canned or homemade)
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2 cups shredded cheddar or cheddar–Monterey Jack blend
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1 bag (about 32 oz) frozen tater tots
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Optional toppings: green onions, jalapeños, sour cream
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
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If using canned chili, warm it gently on the stovetop for a few minutes to reduce excess moisture.
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Spread the chili evenly in the bottom of the baking dish.
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Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded cheese evenly over the chili.
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Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top, leaving a little space between them.
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Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until the tater tots are golden and crisp.
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Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and return to the oven for 5–10 minutes, just until melted.
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Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
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Use thick chili for best results—thin chili can cause sogginess.
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Always bake uncovered so steam can escape and the tater tots crisp properly.
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Add cheese near the end of baking to prevent excess moisture buildup.
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This recipe is easy to customize with spicy, vegetarian, or lighter chili options.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 980 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg