Making your own Tater Tot Casserole is a breeze when you follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
3. Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
4. Layer Cheese: Spread half of the shredded cheddar cheese on a greased baking dish.
5. Add Beef Mixture: Pour the beef mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
6. Top with Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the beef mixture.
7. Add Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the tater tots.
8. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
9. Cool Slightly: Once done, allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.

These clear instructions will lead you to a delicious Tater Tot Casserole that will impress your family and friends alike.