What makes a crispy tot chili casserole different from regular chili?

The biggest difference is texture and presentation . Regular chili is served in a bowl, often with cornbread or chips. In contrast, crispy tot chili casserole layers rich, seasoned chili with golden tater tots baked on top. It’s baked rather than simmered, making it spoonable like a casserole but with all the flavor of traditional chili. This combo is why so many people search for crispy tot chili casserole recipes —you get crispy, hearty, cheesy, and saucy in one bite.

Can I make crispy tot chili casserole without meat?

Absolutely. The crispy tot chili casserole no meat variation is a favorite among vegetarians and those cutting back on red meat. You can: Use extra beans like black, pinto, or chickpeas Add lentils or quinoa for protein Try plant-based crumbles or mushrooms for texture It’s still rich, savory, and deeply satisfying—even without the beef.

Can I use leftover chili in this casserole?

Yes! If you’ve got a pot of chili from last night, you’re halfway there. The leftover chili casserole recipe works like this: Preheat oven to 425°F Spoon chili into a baking dish Top with frozen tots and bake until golden Finish with cheese and cilantro, and serve hot It’s fast, reduces waste, and no one will guess it wasn’t made fresh.

How do I make crispy tot chili casserole in the slow cooker?

For a crispy tot chili casserole slow cooker version : Make the chili base in the slow cooker (4–5 hours on low) Transfer chili to a baking dish Top with frozen tots and bake at 425°F for 25–30 minutes Add cheese during the last 5 minutes This method is great for meal prep and lets you build flavor slowly throughout the day.

Crispy Tot Chili Casserole – The Best Cheesy One-Pan Dinner

Description

Crispy Tot Chili Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mash-up! A flavorful ground beef chili base is topped with a generous layer of crispy tater tots and melty cheese, baked to golden perfection. It’s quick to prep, family-approved, and perfect for cozy dinners or game day feasts.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef
1/2 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (15 oz) chili beans (or kidney beans), undrained
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1/4 cup tomato paste
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
Chopped green onions or cilantro (for garnish)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onions until beef is browned and onions are soft, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess grease.
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in chili beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
Transfer the chili mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
Arrange tater tots in an even layer on top.
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until tots are golden and crispy.
Remove from oven, top with remaining cheese, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until cheese is melted.
Garnish with green onions or cilantro and serve hot.

Notes

Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the chili for a spicier kick.
Use vegetarian crumbles and omit beef for a meatless version.
Make ahead: assemble up to step 5, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.
Leftovers reheat well and make a great next-day lunch!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 generous portion
Calories: 490
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 820mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 75mg