Cook the Ground Beef

1. Brown the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Add Aromatics: Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
3. Season the Beef: Add salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Mix well to coat the beef with the seasonings. Remove from heat and set aside.

Prepare the Creamy Sauce

4. Make the Sauce: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
5. Add Vegetables: Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, ensuring they are evenly distributed in the sauce.

Assemble the Casserole

6. Layer the Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly in the bottom of the dish. Pour the creamy vegetable sauce over the beef layer and smooth with a spatula.
7. Add Cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the creamy layer.
8. Top with Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the casserole.

Bake the Casserole

9. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
10. Add More Cheese: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the tater tots. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve

11. Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
12. Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm and enjoy!