Hamburger Tater Tot Casserole with Gravy

Name: Hamburger Tater Tot Casserole with Gravy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 32 oz frozen tater tots; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 tsp garlic powder; 1 cup low-sodium beef broth; ¼ cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup whole milk

Published: December 27, 2025

by william castellanos

Why You'll Love This Hamburger Tater Tot Casserole with Gravy

This incredible Hamburger Tater Tot Casserole with Gravy transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Hamburger Tater Tot Casserole with Gravy:

Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option; it’ll provide the savory base for your casserole.
Tater Tots: Frozen tater tots work best; they give that crispy texture you’re craving on top of the casserole.
Onion: Diced onions add sweetness and depth to the flavor profile; sauté them until translucent for maximum taste.
Garlic Powder: This essential seasoning enhances the overall flavor without any chopping involved—easy peasy!
Beef Broth: Use low-sodium beef broth to control salt levels while providing a rich, meaty flavor to the gravy.

For the Gravy:

All-Purpose Flour: This thickens your gravy perfectly; just make sure to whisk it well to avoid lumps.
Milk: Use whole milk for creaminess that takes this dish over the top in flavor and richness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Hamburger Tater Tot Casserole with Gravy:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking dish (about 9×13 inches) and spray it lightly with nonstick cooking spray—no one wants their casserole stuck!

Step 2: Prepare The Meat Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown about one pound of ground beef. Add diced onions and cook until they’re soft and fragrant—around five minutes should do it.

Step 3: Make The Gravy

Once your meat is cooked through, sprinkle in all-purpose flour and garlic powder. Stir it up until everything is well-coated before gradually adding beef broth. Let it simmer until thickened—this should take about three to five minutes.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Spread your beef mixture evenly across the bottom of your baking dish. Then layer those glorious frozen tater tots on top like you mean it! They deserve love too.

Step 5: Create The Creamy Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and any remaining beef broth before pouring it evenly over those tater tots. Get ready for some serious flavor magic!

Step 6: Bake And Serve

Pop that beauty into your preheated oven for around 30-35 minutes or until golden brown on top. When it’s done baking, let it cool slightly before serving—if you can resist diving right in!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra gravy on top for the perfect finishing touch! Your taste buds will thank you as you dig into this comforting masterpiece.

Now all that’s left is enjoying every delicious bite!

You Must Know About Hamburger Tater Tot Casserole with Gravy

This showstopping Hamburger Tater Tot Casserole with Gravy delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet, while preheating your oven. Next, prepare the gravy and mix it with the beef, then layer tater tots on top before baking. This sequence optimizes your time and ensures everything’s perfectly cooked.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to spice things up! Swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken, add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or onions, or sprinkle some cheese on top before baking for an extra flavor punch.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, preserving that delicious crunch on top.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Hamburger Tater Tot Casserole with Gravy

This professional-quality Hamburger Tater Tot Casserole with Gravy relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Sometimes I make this casserole for potlucks and hear people rave about it long after it’s gone—nothing warms my heart quite like seeing a crowd go wild over my humble cooking!

FAQs

What is Hamburger Tater Tot Casserole with Gravy?

Hamburger Tater Tot Casserole with Gravy is a hearty and delicious dish that combines seasoned ground beef, creamy gravy, and crispy tater tots. This comforting casserole is perfect for family dinners or busy weeknights. Layered with cheese and baked until golden, it offers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures. It’s an easy one-dish meal that appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it a popular choice for gatherings and potlucks.

How do I make Hamburger Tater Tot Casserole with Gravy?

To make Hamburger Tater Tot Casserole with Gravy, start by browning ground beef in a skillet. Drain excess fat before adding your favorite seasonings. Next, prepare a gravy using broth and flour or opt for store-bought. In a baking dish, layer the cooked beef, pour the gravy over it, then top with frozen tater tots. Bake until the tots are crispy and golden brown. For added flavor, sprinkle cheese on top before serving.

Can I customize Hamburger Tater Tot Casserole with Gravy?

Absolutely! You can customize Hamburger Tater Tot Casserole with Gravy to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding vegetables like peas or green beans for extra nutrition. If you prefer spicier dishes, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the ground beef mixture. You can also swap out the hamburger for turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Experimenting with different cheeses can also enhance the flavor profile of this comforting casserole.

How long does Hamburger Tater Tot Casserole with Gravy last in the fridge?

Hamburger Tater Tot Casserole with Gravy can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days when properly covered. To reheat leftovers, place them in an oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For best quality, consume within a few days to enjoy its full flavor and texture. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual portions for up to three months.

Conclusion

In summary, Hamburger Tater Tot Casserole with Gravy is a delightful combination of flavors that makes mealtime enjoyable and stress-free. Its versatility allows you to adapt ingredients according to your family’s preferences while providing a satisfying dish everyone loves. Whether you’re planning a quick weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd, this casserole is sure to please. Don’t forget to savor every bite of this tasty comfort food creation!