Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Preheating ensures the dish cooks evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.

Cook the Ground Beef and Onion:

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces as it browns. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Tip: Use lean ground beef to minimize grease, which keeps the casserole from becoming too oily.

Season the Mixture:

Stir in the savory salt and black pepper (if using) to season the beef and onion mixture. Mix well to ensure flavors are evenly distributed.

Combine with Soup and Cheese:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy chicken soup and 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese. Add the cooked beef mixture to the bowl and stir until everything is well-coated and the cheese is evenly mixed.

Tip: Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for a smoother melt and richer flavor.

Assemble the Casserole:

Pour the beef and cheese mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure a uniform layer.

Top with Tater Tots:

Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the beef mixture. This helps them crisp up beautifully in the oven.

Add Remaining Cheese:

Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of grated cheddar cheese over the tater tots for an extra layer of creamy, cheesy goodness.

Bake:

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy on top.

Tip: Check on the casserole periodically to avoid overcooking and ensure the cheese melts evenly.

Serve and Enjoy: