Making Shepherd’s Pie Tater Tot Casserole is simple. Follow these steps for a delicious outcome:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking.
2. Cook the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Brown it until fully cooked, breaking it apart into smaller pieces.
3. Add Vegetables: To the skillet, stir in the diced onion and cook until translucent. Add minced garlic, carrots, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
4. Mix in Sauces: Stir in beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5-7 minutes until thickened.
5. Incorporate Peas: Add the frozen peas and mix until well combined. Remove the skillet from heat.
6. Layer Ingredients: Spread the meat mixture evenly across the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
7. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the meat mixture.
8. Top with Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots on top of the cheese layer in a single layer.
9. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
10. Cool Before Serving: Once cooked, allow the casserole to cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving.

This simple process will guide you toward creating this delightful casserole effortlessly.