Cheesy Garlic Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
4. Season the beef mixture with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Stir well to combine.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
6. Add the soup mixture to the skillet with the beef. Stir until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
7. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
8. Transfer the beef and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
9. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the beef mixture.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
11. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole and return it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
12. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Topping Variation: For an extra crunchy topping, mix 1 cup of crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and sprinkle it over the cheese layer before baking.