Tator Tot Casserole High Protein

BY

January 29, 2026

This tator tot casserole high protein brings comfort food vibes with a smarter balance. It keeps the crispy tater tot topping everyone loves while packing in more protein to keep you full longer. The texture stays creamy, the flavor stays classic, and the ingredients stay simple. It works well for weeknights, meal prep, or feeding hungry families.


Why Youโ€™ll Love This Recipe

  • High protein from lean meat and dairy
  • Crispy tater tot topping
  • No complicated steps
  • Filling without feeling heavy
  • Easy to reheat for leftovers

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground turkey or 93% lean beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
  • 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
  • 1 ยฝ cups shredded high-protein cheddar or mozzarella
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ยฝ tsp black pepper
  • ยฝ tsp paprika
  • 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
  • Optional: spinach or peas

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400ยฐF.
  2. Cook the ground meat in a skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add onion and garlic. Stir until soft.
  4. Mix Greek yogurt and cottage cheese in a bowl.
  5. Stir the dairy mixture and seasoning into the meat.
  6. Fold in half of the cheese.
  7. Spread the mixture into a baking dish.
  8. Arrange tater tots evenly on top.
  9. Bake for 30 minutes.
  10. Add remaining cheese and bake 5 more minutes.

This tator tot casserole high protein sets up creamy inside with a crisp top.


Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with a fresh green salad
  • Serve with steamed broccoli
  • Add sliced green onions on top

Quick Tips or Variations

  • Use ground chicken for a lighter option
  • Add beans for extra protein
  • Try sharp cheese for bolder flavor

FAQs

How do you add more protein to tater tot casserole?

Use lean meat, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, and high-protein cheese.

Is tater tot casserole good for meal prep?

Yes. It reheats well and holds texture for several days.

Can I make this tator tot casserole high protein ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze high-protein tater tot casserole?

Yes. Freeze after baking and cooling. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

This tator tot casserole high protein proves you can enjoy classic comfort while staying full and fueled. Itโ€™s simple, hearty, and perfect for busy nights.

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Tator Tot Casserole High Protein


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  • Author: Laura Jennings
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This tator tot casserole high protein uses lean meat, Greek yogurt, and cottage cheese for a filling, cozy dinner with crispy tots.


Ingredients

Scale

1 lb lean ground turkey or 93% lean ground beef

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt

1 cup low-fat cottage cheese

1 1/2 cups shredded high-protein cheddar or mozzarella

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp paprika

32 oz frozen tater tots

Optional spinach or peas


Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400ยฐF.

2. Cook ground meat in a skillet over medium heat until browned.

3. Add onion and garlic and cook until soft.

4. Mix Greek yogurt and cottage cheese in a bowl.

5. Stir dairy mixture and seasoning into the meat.

6. Fold in half of the shredded cheese.

7. Spread mixture evenly into a baking dish.

8. Arrange tater tots in a single layer on top.

9. Bake for 30 minutes.

10. Add remaining cheese and bake 5 minutes more.

Notes

Use a single layer of tater tots for crisp texture.

Let casserole rest 5 minutes before serving.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 760mg
  • Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 33g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

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