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Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole

Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole

  • Author: David
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This easy Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole is a hearty, comforting meal featuring smoky turkey bacon, rich plant-based cheese, and crispy golden tater tots. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it combines layers of flavorful chili made with ground turkey, kidney beans, and delicious seasonings topped with melted cheese and crunchy tots. This crowd-pleaser is simple to prepare, adaptable, and satisfying for the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale

Chili Base

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 4 slices smoky turkey bacon, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 2 tbsp chili seasoning
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (natural), undrained

Cheese Layer

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded plant-based cheese

Topping

  • 1 (32 oz) package frozen tater tots

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chili base: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey with chopped onion and garlic until the meat is fully browned and the onions are translucent. Add chopped smoky turkey bacon and cook until slightly crisp. Stir in vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), chili seasoning, kidney beans, and diced tomatoes (natural). Simmer gently until the flavors meld and the mixture thickens slightly.
  2. Assemble the layers: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the chili base into a medium baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded plant-based cheese over the chili, covering every inch for a gooey melt.
  3. Top with tater tots: Arrange the tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese, ensuring they cover the surface completely. This will create a golden, crunchy topping after baking.
  4. Bake to perfection: Bake the casserole for 25 to 30 minutes until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let the casserole rest for five minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly.

Notes

  • Choose quality turkey bacon for better flavor and texture; smoky, thick-cut works best.
  • Let the casserole rest before serving so it holds together better for easier portions.
  • Use freshly ground chili powders and spices for vibrant, deep flavor.
  • Layer evenly for perfect bites with balanced cheese and crispy tots.
  • For extra crunch, replace the topping halfway through baking or broil briefly at the end.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/6 casserole
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: chili, tater tot casserole, plant-based cheese, turkey bacon, family-friendly, comfort food, easy dinner, crowd pleaser

Find it online: https://yummyrecipeszone.com/chili-cheese-tater-tot-casserole/