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Creamy Three-Cheese Tater Tot Casserole

Crispy golden tater tots baked in a rich, homemade garlic-cheese sauce, topped with melted cheddar and fresh chives. The ultimate comfort food side dish.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

The Base
  • 32 oz frozen tater tots do not thaw
  • 1 tbsp olive oil for greasing
Cheese Sauce
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2.5 cups whole milk warmed
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup Gruyere or Mozzarella shredded
  • 0.5 cup sour cream
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder
Toppings
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded, for top
  • 2 tbsp fresh chives chopped

Equipment

  • 9x13 Baking Dish
  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Cheese grater

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9x13 baking dish.
  2. Spread frozen tater tots in the dish and par-bake for 15 minutes to crisp them up.
  3. While tots bake, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
  4. Slowly whisk in warm milk until smooth. Cook until thickened (about 3-5 minutes).
  5. Remove sauce from heat. Stir in spices, sour cream, and the 2 cups of mixed cheese until melted.
  6. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the par-baked tots. Top with the remaining 1 cup of cheese.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbling and golden brown.
  8. Let rest for 10 minutes to set. Garnish with fresh chives before serving.

Notes

Par-baking the tots is the secret to avoiding a soggy casserole. Add bacon bits or cooked ground beef for a meatier version.