Tater Tot Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that has been a staple in many households for generations. This hearty and satisfying casserole features a savory ground beef base topped with crispy, golden-brown tater tots. This updated version of Tater Tot Casserole features creamy sauce from scratch using wholesome ingredients like chicken broth, milk, and a blend of seasonings. The result is a delicious, homemade casserole that's perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you're craving a comforting, filling meal.
Follow the instructions on the tater tot bag to preheat your oven. In a large, oven-proof skillet (at least 10"; cast iron is recommended), brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Season with salt and pepper, then drain and set aside.
Reduce the heat to medium and melt butter in the skillet. Add mushrooms and shallots, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 3-5 minutes until the mushrooms begin to soften. Add garlic and sauté for an additional minute. Sprinkle flour into the skillet and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute. Gradually pour in chicken broth and milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Add tamari/soy sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika. Increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a bubble, then reduce the heat back to medium and simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the ground beef. Arrange tater tots on top of the mixture. Place the skillet on a baking sheet (or place one on the rack below) and bake according to the tater-to-bag instructions. After baking, allow the dish to sit for 5 minutes to thicken before serving.