Tater Tot Beef Casserole

Dive into the ultimate comfort food with this classic Tater Tot Casserole. It's a heartwarming, one-dish meal that brings the whole family to the table. Featuring a rich and savory ground beef filling mixed with tender vegetables in a creamy sauce, it's all topped with a golden, crispy layer of tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a chilly evening or a busy weeknight, this casserole is pure satisfaction in every bite.

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This casserole is more than just a meal; it's a feeling of home. It’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or whenever you need a reliable crowd-pleaser. The simple, hearty flavors are nostalgic and consistently delicious, making it a recipe you'll return to again and again.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (150 g) frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
• 1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk
• 1 1/2 cups (170 g) shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 bag (32 oz / 900 g) frozen tater tots
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, until softened.

Step 4

Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and cook for 2 minutes.

Step 5

Add the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Stir until well combined and heated through. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Step 6

Remove from heat and mix in 1 cup (115 g) of shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 7

Spread the beef and vegetable mixture evenly into a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.

Step 8

Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the top.

Step 9

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.

Step 10

Remove from oven, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup (55 g) cheddar cheese over the tater tots, and bake for another 5–10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and tater tots are golden brown.

Step 11

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

After browning the ground beef, make sure to drain any excess fat from the skillet. This simple step prevents the casserole from becoming greasy and ensures the filling maintains its perfectly rich and creamy texture.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Feel free to customize this casserole to your liking. For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also add other vegetables like sliced mushrooms or diced bell peppers along with the onions. To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and verify that your brand of tater tots is also gluten-free.

Serviervorschläge

While this casserole is a hearty meal all on its own, it pairs beautifully with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad provides a lovely contrast to the rich, savory flavors of the bake.

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With its irresistible combination of textures and flavors, this Tater Tot Casserole is destined to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Happy cooking!

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute different meats?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter variation without sacrificing flavor.

→ What vegetables work best in this dish?

Frozen peas, carrots, corn, and green beans provide a balanced mix of flavors and textures.

→ How do I ensure the topping is extra crispy?

Arrange tater tots in a single layer and bake uncovered; finishing with additional cheese helps achieve a golden crust.

→ Can this be made gluten-free?

Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and gluten-free tater tots to adapt the dish for gluten-sensitive diets.

→ What are some good side dishes to pair with this bake?

A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables complement the hearty flavors without overwhelming the palate.