Air Fryer Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole
Crispy on top, creamy in the middle, and loaded with cheesy goodness, Air Fryer Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate comfort food made quick and easy. By using the air fryer, you get perfectly golden tater tots with less time and effort than a traditional oven, while still enjoying all the rich, satisfying flavours of a classic casserole.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, casual family dinners, or when you need a crowd-pleasing meal with minimal prep. It’s hearty, affordable, and endlessly customisable—exactly the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Faster than oven-baked casseroles
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Crispy tater tots with a creamy, cheesy filling
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Simple ingredients the whole family enjoys
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One-dish comfort food
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Easy to customise with different add-ins
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
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500 g frozen tater tots
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400 g minced beef or chicken
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 small onion, finely diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1 teaspoon paprika or mixed herbs
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1 can (400 g) condensed cream of mushroom or chicken soup
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½ cup milk
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1½ cups grated cheddar cheese
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½ cup grated mozzarella cheese
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½ cup frozen corn or peas (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the Meat
Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Add the mince and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika or herbs. Remove from heat.
2. Prepare the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, mix the condensed soup and milk until smooth. Stir in half of the cheddar cheese.
3. Combine the Filling
Add the cooked meat to the sauce mixture. Stir in corn or peas if using. Mix well so everything is evenly coated.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Lightly grease an air-fryer-safe baking dish that fits your air fryer basket. Spoon the meat mixture into the dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese.
Arrange frozen tater tots evenly over the top in a single layer. Finish with the remaining cheddar and mozzarella.
5. Air Fry
Preheat air fryer to 180°C. Cook the casserole for 15–18 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbling. If needed, cook for an extra 2–3 minutes for extra crispiness.
6. Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
Serving Suggestions
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Fresh green salad with vinaigrette
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Steamed vegetables
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Coleslaw for crunch
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Tomato sauce or sour cream on the side
Tips for Best Results
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Use frozen tater tots straight from the freezer
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Don’t overcrowd the air fryer dish
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Choose a shallow dish for crispier tots
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Let the casserole rest before serving
Variations
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Chicken version: Use cooked shredded chicken
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Vegetarian: Replace meat with mushrooms or lentils
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Mexican-style: Add taco seasoning and top with salsa
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Extra cheesy: Mix cream cheese into the filling
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 170°C for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. Crispy, creamy, and loaded with flavour, it’s a guaranteed hit for both kids and adults. With quick prep and easy cleanup, it’s a recipe that earns a permanent spot in your weekly meal rotation.