Step 1

Preheat oven to 375°F.

Step 2

Lightly spray the bottom of a 9x13 pan with cooking spray. Place the tater tots in the dish and pre-bake for 8 minutes. Remove from the oven and transfer to a bowl.

Step 3

Turn the oven up to 425°F.

Step 4

In a large skillet cook your onions and ground beef until beef is no longer pink and onions are tender.

Step 5

Pour in the Rotel tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Cook until the liquid has reduced, about 8 minutes.

Step 6

Remove from the heat and add sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, drained corn, ½ cup of cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted.

Step 7

Pour the mixture into the bottom of the baking dish and spread evenly.

Step 8

Sprinkle ½ cup of cheese over the top of the casserole.

Step 9

Layer the tater tots on top,pressing them down into the mixture.

Step 10

Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese over the top of the tater tots.

Step 11

Sprinkle the chopped chives over the cheese.

Step 12

Cover and bake at 425°F for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes.

Step 13

Remove from oven and serve.