Ground Turkey Tater Tot Casserole

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Ground turkey tater tot casserole brings together everything we love about comfort food in one cozy dish.

Ground turkey adds a hearty bite without feeling too heavy, while a mix of colorful vegetables and crispy tater tots turns a simple casserole into something special.

This recipe makes it easy to serve a filling meal that’s ready for any busy weeknight or casual weekend gathering.

What makes this casserole a standout is its balance of flavors and textures—from the creamy turkey and veggie layer to the golden tater tots baked on top.

With a simple seasoning and ingredients that you likely have on hand, it’s a family-friendly option that doesn’t need extra fuss.

Just a few steps, a bit of baking time, and you’ll have a meal that’s satisfying for all ages.

Table of Contents

Ground Turkey Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

1 tablespoon avocado oil
1 small onion, finely chopped (about 1½ cups)
¾ teaspoon salt, divided
1 pound ground turkey (93% lean)
1 teaspoon garlic powder or 2 fresh garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
12 ounces frozen mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, corn, and green beans)
1 cup frozen riced cauliflower
1 cup milk (any type, or substitute with more broth if preferred)
½ cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder
¼ teaspoon ground pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
24-38 ounces frozen tater tots

Instructions

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×12-inch baking dish with oil.
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the avocado oil. Add the chopped onion and ½ teaspoon salt. Sauté until the onion becomes soft, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Add ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. When browned, mix in the garlic, Worcestershire (or soy sauce substitute), frozen veggies, cauliflower rice, and milk.
In a small bowl, stir together cornstarch and broth until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet, bringing it to a simmer. Let cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens. Season with remaining salt and pepper, adjusting to taste.
Transfer the turkey mixture into the greased baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar on top, then arrange the tater tots over the cheese in even rows.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy. Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before serving.

What To Serve With Ground Turkey Tater Tot Casserole?

This casserole is hearty on its own, but adding a few simple sides can make the meal even more enjoyable. Here are some tasty options to serve alongside it:

Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with lettuce, cucumber, and tomatoes adds a light balance.
Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are easy, nutritious additions.
Dinner Rolls or Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce and adding a bit of crunch.
Fruit Salad: A light, sweet fruit salad offers a refreshing break between bites of the savory casserole.

How To Store Ground Turkey Tater Tot Casserole?

Storing leftovers is simple, and they’ll keep well for a few days. Follow these steps to store your casserole:

In the Refrigerator: Place leftovers in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
In the Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or store it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2–3 months.

To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20–30 minutes until heated through. If frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Can I Make Ground Turkey Tater Tot Casserole In Advance?

Yes, this casserole is great for making ahead! Prepare everything up until baking.

Cover the assembled casserole tightly with plastic wrap or foil, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours.

When you’re ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as usual, adding a few extra minutes if it’s straight from the fridge.

Variations For Ground Turkey Tater Tot Casserole

There are plenty of ways to customize this casserole to fit your taste or use what you have on hand:

Switch Up the Meat: Try using ground chicken or beef for a different flavor.
Add Different Vegetables: You can add bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra color and flavor.
Cheese Lovers: Add more cheese, or try a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack.
Top It Differently: Instead of tater tots, try mashed potatoes or even sweet potato tots for a twist.