Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir ground beef, onion, garlic powder, salt and pepper in the hot skillet until completely browned and crumbly, 7 to 10 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.
In a large bowl combine beef mixture with condensed soup, corn and cheddar cheese.
Transfer beef mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish; layer tater tots evenly on top.
Bake in the preheated oven until tater tots are golden brown and hot, 40-45 minutes.