Who doesn’t love a warm, hearty dish that’s easy to make and puts smiles on everyone’s faces? Enter the Tater Tot Casserole—a comfort food classic that never disappoints. This all-in-one dish is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or anytime you want a meal that’s both satisfying and simple to make. With crispy tater tots, savory ground beef, gooey cheese, and creamy sauce, it’s a flavor-packed crowd-pleaser.
Whether you're whipping it up for the little ones or serving it to a table of hungry guests, this dish is a guaranteed hit. Best of all? It’s endlessly customizable, so you can make it your own. Let's dig in!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious casserole:
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and corn work great)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup, depending on your taste)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or casserole dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is soft and translucent. Drain any excess grease from the skillet. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
Step 3: Mix the Filling
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and milk until it’s combined and creamy. Add the frozen mixed vegetables and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the beef and vegetable mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer. Arrange the frozen tater tots on top in a single layer, making sure to cover the entire surface. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tater tots.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbling. If you want extra crispiness, you can broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes—but keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to sit for a couple of minutes before serving. Dish it out into plates or bowls and watch it disappear in no time!
Tips for Customization
- Protein Options: Ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled plant-based meat substitutes can work just as well as ground beef.
- Veggie Variations: Swap out frozen vegetables for fresh ones like diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Got picky eaters? Stick to family faves like corn or peas.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a touch of heat.
- Cheese Choices: Substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a twist on flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Tater Tot Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or steamed green beans to add a lighter element to the meal. For a fun twist, serve it with ketchup, ranch dressing, or hot sauce for dipping on the side.
This recipe is classic, foolproof, and guaranteed to become a family tradition. Whether you're enjoying it straight out of the oven or reheating leftovers, every bite of this casserole will remind you of why we love comfort food so much. Go ahead, grab a plate… and maybe seconds!
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