Tater Tot Casserole is a delightful dish that brings comfort and joy to any table. This hearty meal is simple to make and has a rich, savory flavor that everyone loves. With its mix of ground beef, creamy soup, and crispy tater tots, it’s a winner for dinner. It not only tastes good but also takes very little time to prepare. Whether it’s a family weeknight meal or a gathering with friends, this casserole satisfies.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
There are many reasons to love Tater Tot Casserole. First, it is easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip it up in no time. Second, it is a crowd-pleaser. People of all ages enjoy tater tots, and combined with beef and cheese, it becomes a favorite comfort food. Third, it is versatile. You can add vegetables or even personalize it with your favorite seasonings. Finally, it is a complete meal in one dish. You have your meat, your starch, and your cheese all in one delightful casserole.
HOW TO MAKE TATER TOT CASSEROLE
Making Tater Tot Casserole is simple. Just follow these steps, and you will have a delicious meal ready in about an hour.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
To make Tater Tot Casserole, you will need:
- A skillet for cooking the beef and onion
- A spatula or wooden spoon for stirring
- A baking dish to hold the casserole
- An oven for baking
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 bag frozen tater tots
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and season with salt and pepper.
- In a greased baking dish, spread the beef mixture evenly.
- Layer the tater tots on top of the beef mixture.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the tater tots.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
HOW TO SERVE TATER TOT CASSEROLE
When serving Tater Tot Casserole, you can cut it into squares or scoop it out with a spoon. It is perfect on its own, but you can add toppings like sour cream or chopped green onions for extra flavor.
STORAGE & FREEZING : TATER TOT CASSEROLE
If you have leftovers, Tater Tot Casserole stores well. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave. If you want to freeze it, let it cool completely, then cover it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When you are ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then bake it until warm.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
Tater Tot Casserole can be served with a side salad or some steamed vegetables. It pairs well with garlic bread or a simple coleslaw for a refreshing crunch. You could also serve it with a dollop of ketchup or hot sauce for those who enjoy a little kick.
VARIATIONS
There are many ways to change up Tater Tot Casserole. You can:
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Add chopped broccoli, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the beef mixture for extra veggies.
- Try different types of cheese, like cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a spicier kick.
- Replace the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or a cheese sauce for a different flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I make Tater Tot Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it the day before and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you are ready to eat.
2. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
Yes, you can slice fresh potatoes thinly, but they will need longer to cook. You may want to par-boil them before adding them to the casserole.
3. How do I know when Tater Tot Casserole is done?
It is done when the tater tots on top are golden brown and crispy. The inside should be hot and bubbly.
4. What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
You can use any cream soup you have on hand, or make a homemade version using milk, flour, and seasonings.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR TATER TOT CASSEROLE
To make Tater Tot Casserole ahead of time, follow these tips:
- Prepare the beef and onion mixture and let it cool completely.
- Layer it in the baking dish with the tater tots and cheese.
- Cover it tightly and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- When you are ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold.
Now you have a foolproof recipe for Tater Tot Casserole that is sure to be a hit at your next meal. Enjoy the cooking and have fun sharing this delicious dish with your family and friends.
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Tater Tot Casserole
A hearty Tater Tot Casserole loaded with ground beef, creamy soup, and crispy tater tots – the perfect comfort food for any gathering.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 bag frozen tater tots
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and season with salt and pepper.
- In a greased baking dish, spread the beef mixture evenly.
- Layer the tater tots on top of the beef mixture.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the tater tots.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Tater Tot Casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal, weeknight recipe
