Let's introduce a delicious, comfort food classic: Tater Tot Casserole. This dish is simple, yet rich in flavors, bringing together crispy tater tots, creamy condensed soup, and savory ground meat in one satisfying package. It's a convenient, budget-friendly option that serves as a perfect weeknight dinner.
Not only does it taste like a dream, but it is also super easy to prepare and customize. So, grab your apron and prepare to embark on a culinary adventure into the world of good old-fashioned, home-style cooking.
Table of Contents
Recipe Video
Why This Recipe Works
Firstly, this Tater Tot Casserole recipe works because of its versatility. You can make it with ground beef, turkey, or even a vegetarian meat substitute - the choice is yours! Plus, the addition of vegetables not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds a layer of flavor and texture to the dish. Don't like green beans? Swap them out for corn, peas, or your favorite veggies. It's a creative culinary playground where you can play with your food and your palate.
Secondly, this dish is excellent for those days when you crave something comforting, warm, and homely. The crispy tater tots combine beautifully with the creamy soup and tender meat to create a casserole that's hearty and satisfying. Moreover, it's a fantastic crowd-pleaser. Whether you're hosting a casual dinner party, need a potluck contribution, or want to make a meal that will yield tasty leftovers, this casserole is your go-to recipe. It's the epitome of comfort food that invites everyone to dig in and enjoy.
Ingredients
Tater Tots- These mini hash browns are the heart of the casserole. Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, they add a wonderful texture. If you can't find them, hash browns or diced potatoes can be used as a substitute.
Ground Beef- Adds protein and depth to the casserole. It's browned and mixed in with the other ingredients. You could substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Cream of Mushroom Soup- Provides a creamy base for the casserole. It helps combine the flavors of all the ingredients. In case of allergy or preference, cream of chicken or celery soup can be used instead.
Cheddar Cheese- Melts and binds the ingredients together while adding a sharp, tangy flavor. If you're not a fan of cheddar, try mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
Frozen Mixed Vegetables- For a nutritious boost and added color. This can be any blend of peas, corn, carrots, and green beans. Feel free to use any of your preferred vegetables or even a can of drained veggie mix if that's what you have on hand.
Tips
- Always preheat your oven for even cooking.
- Brown the ground beef thoroughly before mixing with other ingredients. It adds more flavor to the casserole.
- Season your ingredients generously. This dish relies on the flavors of the individual ingredients.
- If using hash browns or diced potatoes instead of tater tots, ensure they are fully cooked before adding to the casserole.
- You can prepare this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate, then bake when needed. This makes it a convenient choice for busy weeknights.
How to Serve
A tater tot casserole can be a stand-alone dish due to its combination of carbohydrates, protein, and vegetables. It's hearty, flavorful, and generally well-loved by both kids and adults alike.
- Serve it alongside a simple green salad for a more balanced meal. The cool, crisp salad makes a nice contrast to the rich, warm casserole.
- Pair it with a crusty bread roll. This is great for scooping up any leftover sauce on your plate.
- To make it more of a feast, serve it alongside other classic comfort foods, such as cornbread or baked beans.
Need more ideas? Check out What To Serve With Tater Tot Casserole for 15 delicious options.
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Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can Cream of Mushroom Soup 10.5 oz
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 package frozen tater tots 32-ounce
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat and drain the fat.
- In a large bowl, mix the browned beef, cream of mushroom soup, frozen vegetables, and half the cheese.
- In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread the beef and vegetable mixture.
- Arrange the tater tots on top of the mixture in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Nutrition
Video
Notes
- Always preheat your oven for even cooking.
- Brown the ground beef thoroughly before mixing with other ingredients. It adds more flavor to the casserole.
- Season your ingredients generously. This dish relies on the flavors of the individual ingredients.
- If using hash browns or diced potatoes instead of tater tots, ensure they are fully cooked before adding to the casserole.
- You can prepare this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate, then bake when needed. This makes it a convenient choice for busy weeknights.
Made this tonight and it was spectacular. Used Cream of Celery canned soup (its what I had). Use ground venison instead of beef (also what I had). Some of us had sour cream as a topping but those that didn't have a topping, didn't need a topping at all.