Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

Tater Tot Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a family dinner. This recipe combines ground beef, creamy soup, vegetables, and crispy tater tots for a delicious one-dish meal. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, and green beans)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 package (32 oz) frozen tater tots
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture

1. Cook the beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add onions and garlic: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Mix the Casserole Base

1. Combine soup, sour cream, and milk: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk until well combined.
2. Add vegetables and cheese: Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese.
3. Mix in beef: Add the cooked ground beef mixture to the bowl and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Spread the mixture: Spread the beef and vegetable mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
2. Top with tater tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the top of the beef mixture.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
2. Add remaining cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the tater tots. Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

1. Cool slightly: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Serve: Scoop generous portions onto plates and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Tater Tot Casserole

• Meat options: You can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork instead of beef.
• Vegetable variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
• Cheese choices: Try different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Swiss for a different flavor.
• Make ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

Conclusion

This classic tater tot casserole recipe is a comforting and delicious dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its savory meat mixture, creamy base, and crispy tater tot topping, it’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy making and eating this hearty casserole!