Introduction
Comfort food at its best, this cheesy tater tot casserole is a delightful dish that combines savory ground beef, flavorful vegetables, and crispy tater tots, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck, this recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps required to create this hearty meal.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
1 clove garlic, minced
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
½ cup milk
1 bag (about 32 oz) frozen tater tots
1-2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
1-2 cups frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, or green beans)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
30-40 minutes
Total Time
45-55 minutes
Yield
Serves 6-8
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
5. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika (if using).
6. Add the frozen vegetables to the mixture and stir to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
9. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
10. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
12. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
This tater tot casserole promises to be a comforting dish that will leave everyone satisfied. Enjoy your meal!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink.
Step 3: Add Onion and Garlic
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
Step 4: Drain Excess Grease
Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika (if using).
Step 6: Add Frozen Vegetables
Add the frozen vegetables to the mixture and stir to combine.
Step 7: Season the Mixture
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 8: Transfer to Baking Dish
Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 9: Sprinkle Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
Step 10: Arrange Tater Tots
Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.
Step 11: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
Step 12: Rest Before Serving
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Note 1: Meat Alternatives
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option.
Note 2: Cheese Variations
Feel free to use different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend for added flavor.
Note 3: Vegetable Options
You can customize the recipe by using any combination of frozen vegetables based on your preferences.
Note 4: Storage
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Note 5: Reheating
To reheat, place portions in a microwave or an oven until warmed through.
Cook techniques
Brown Ground Beef
Cooking the ground beef until it’s no longer pink ensures it’s properly cooked and adds a depth of flavor to the dish. Use a medium heat to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
Saute Aromatics
Adding diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet after browning the beef enhances the overall flavor. Cook until the onion is translucent to release its natural sweetness.
Combine Ingredients
Mixing the cream of mushroom soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and optional paprika creates a creamy base for the casserole. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Layering the Casserole
Transferring the beef and vegetable mixture to the baking dish and layering it with cheese and tater tots creates an appealing texture and flavor contrast in the final dish.
Bake to Perfection
Baking at 375°F for 30-40 minutes allows the tater tots to become crispy and golden brown while the flavors meld together. Be sure to check for doneness based on your oven’s performance.
Rest Before Serving
Letting the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the overall experience of the dish.
FAQ
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a healthier alternative, though it may alter the flavor slightly.
What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
You can substitute it with a homemade white sauce or another cream soup, such as cream of chicken or cream of celery.
Can I add other vegetables?
Certainly! Feel free to incorporate any frozen or fresh vegetables you prefer, such as corn or broccoli.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can replace ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of milk. Make sure to choose a vegetarian-friendly cream soup or make a homemade version.
Conclusion
This hearty tater tot casserole combines savory ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and crispy tater tots to create a comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners. With its blend of flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table.
Cheesy Beef and Broccoli Bake
Add steamed broccoli to the beef mixture before baking for a nutritious twist.
Mexican Tater Tot Casserole
Incorporate taco seasoning, black beans, and corn for a zesty, south-of-the-border flair.
Italian Style Casserole
Mix in marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese for an Italian-inspired version.
Loaded Baked Potato Casserole
Substitute the ground beef with diced cooked potatoes and sprinkle with bacon bits and green onions.
Vegetarian Option
Replace the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute and use vegetable broth instead of the cream of mushroom soup.
Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole
Use shredded cooked chicken mixed with buffalo sauce for a spicy kick, topped with ranch dressing instead of cheese.
Breakfast Tater Tot Casserole
Incorporate scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage for a delightful brunch option.
