Introduction
This delicious casserole combines the hearty flavors of ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and savory cheese, topped with crispy tater tots for an irresistible meal. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is both comforting and satisfying, bringing warmth to your table in just a short amount of time.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound lean ground beef
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen corn
1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
½ cup whole milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 package (16 ounces) frozen tater tots
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
45 minutes
Total Time
1 hour
Yield
Serves 6-8
This simple and delightful casserole is sure to please everyone at the dinner table. With layers of delicious flavors and textures, it makes for a great meal any night of the week!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, diced red bell pepper, diced onion, and minced garlic until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender. Drain any excess grease.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Stir in the frozen corn, cream of mushroom soup, and whole milk into the beef mixture. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
Step 6: Arrange Tater Tots
Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.
Step 7: Bake the Casserole
Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
Step 8: Add More Cheese
Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots.
Step 9: Final Bake
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
Step 10: Cool Before Serving
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Note 1: Ground Beef Options
You can use lean ground turkey or chicken as a healthier alternative to ground beef.
Note 2: Vegetable Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables, such as diced zucchini or mushrooms, for added flavor and nutrition.
Note 3: Cheese Choices
You can substitute the cheddar cheese with mozzarella or a cheese blend if preferred.
Note 4: Make Ahead
This casserole can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
Note 5: Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Cook Techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a cooking method that involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil over relatively high heat. In this recipe, the ground beef, red bell pepper, onion, and garlic are sautéed until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender.
Mixing
Mixing is the process of combining ingredients to achieve a uniform consistency. In this recipe, mixing occurs when the cream of mushroom soup and whole milk are stirred into the sautéed beef and vegetable mixture to create a creamy filling.
Baking
Baking involves cooking food with dry heat in an oven. In this dish, the assembled casserole is baked at 375°F (190°C) to achieve a golden brown and crispy texture on the tater tots while allowing the flavors to meld.
Cooling
Cooling allows food to reach a safe temperature before serving. After baking, letting the casserole cool for a few minutes helps it set and makes serving easier.
FAQ
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a lighter option in this recipe.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
You can use cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce if you prefer a different flavor or have dietary restrictions.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables such as diced zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to enhance the nutritional value and flavor.
How do I know when the tater tots are done?
The tater tots are done when they are golden brown and crispy on top, which usually takes about 40 minutes of baking.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator, then bake it when ready to serve. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Conclusion
This hearty and comforting casserole combines the richness of ground beef and melted cheddar cheese with the crunch of tater tots, creating a satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With its simple preparation and delicious flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Mexican Beef Casserole
Add black beans, diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning for a southwestern twist.
Vegetable Medley Casserole
Incorporate diced zucchini, carrots, and spinach to enhance the vegetable content and add vibrant colors.
BBQ Beef Tater Tot Casserole
Mix in barbecue sauce and top with crispy onion rings for a smoky flavor.
Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole
Substitute ground beef with shredded cooked chicken and add buffalo sauce for a spicy kick.
Cheesy Broccoli Tater Tot Bake
Add steamed broccoli to the beef mixture for added nutrition and color, with extra cheese for creaminess.
Italian Beef and Tater Tot Bake
Mix in Italian seasoning and marinara sauce, and top with mozzarella cheese for an Italian flair.
