Crispy Tot Chili Casserole

I absolutely love this Crispy Tot Chili Casserole—it layers hearty, flavorful chili with golden, crispy tater tots and melty cheese for an irresistibly delicious, easy one-dish meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I adore this recipe because it combines comfort and convenience effortlessly. Warm, spiced chili contrasts perfectly with the satisfying crunch of tots, all baked together in a bubbly cheese blanket. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for casual dinners, potlucks, or game nights—and super simple to throw together.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb lean ground beef (or turkey)

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 1 Tbsp chili powder

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 32 oz frozen tater tots (about 4 cups)

• Optional toppings: sliced green onions, sour cream, jalapeños

directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400 °F (200 °C).

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with diced onion until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent—about 5–7 minutes.

3. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking for 30 seconds to release the spices.

5. Add kidney beans and crushed tomatoes; stir to combine. Simmer for 5–10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.

6. Transfer the chili mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.

7. Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar evenly over the chili.

8. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.

9. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil if used, top with remaining cheese, and bake for another 5–10 minutes until the tots are golden and cheese is melted.

10. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with green onions, sour cream, or jalapeños if desired, before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: Serves about 6

• Total time: approx. 50 minutes

  • Prep & cook chili: 15 minutes

  • Bake: 30–35 minutes

  • Rest: 5 minutes

Variations

• I’ll swap beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.

• To boost heat, I stir in diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce.

• For a Tex‑Mex twist, I add a can of corn and a diced green bell pepper to the chili.

• I sometimes top it with pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for extra spice.

• For a veggie version, I leave out meat and add extra beans or lentils.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I cover individual portions with foil and bake at 350 °F (175 °C) for about 15 minutes until hot and the tots regain crunch. Alternatively, I microwave portions for 1–2 minutes then crisp them in the toaster oven.

FAQs

How can I make this ahead for a party?

I assemble the casserole up to the frozen tater tot step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When I’m ready, I bake it straight from the fridge, adding about 5 extra minutes to cook time.

Can I use homemade tater tots?

Absolutely—I sometimes grate potatoes, season them, shape into tots, and flash-freeze before using. They bake up just as crispy.

What if I don’t like kidney beans?

I substitute black beans, pinto beans, or even omit beans and add more meat. It all depends on my mood.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes—I freeze the fully baked casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. I thaw it overnight and reheat in the oven at 350 °F until warmed through.

How can I make it healthier?

I use lean meat, reduced-fat cheese, and bake the tots on a separate sheet to reduce overall fat. I also load up on veggies like peppers and onions for added nutrition.

Conclusion

This Crispy Tot Chili Casserole is my go-to when I want comfort food that’s easy, satisfying, and a little fun. With its layered textures, bold flavors, and customizable options, it never disappoints—perfect for feeding a crowd or cozy family dinner nights.