Brown 2 pounds ground beef, then add it to the crock pot.
Stir in 1 can cream of mushroom soup, 2 teaspoons minced garlic, 1 teaspoon salt, and 2 teaspoons black pepper.
Top with 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (half of the total).
Evenly spread 1 (16 oz) package frozen tater tots over the top.
Cover and cook on low for 2–3 hours (or cook on high and reduce the cooking time).
About 30 minutes before serving, top with the remaining 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese.
Add additional salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Video
Notes
This easy tator tot casserole recipe is also very versatile. You can add a can of cream of mushroom soup and make it more creamy. You can add taco seasoning and a can of rotel or salsa and make it a taco tator tot casserole.