Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until softened.
3. Season the beef mixture with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine, then remove from heat and drain any excess grease if necessary.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Sauce

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
2. Pour the creamy sauce over the beef layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
3. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the sauce layer.
4. Scatter the frozen peas and carrots (if using) on top of the cheese layer.
5. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the top, ensuring they cover the entire casserole.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley, crumbled bacon, or green onions, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!