Tater Tot Casserole is a comforting, family-friendly dish that is both simple to make and delicious to eat. Perfect for busy weekdays or cozy weekends, this casserole combines savory ground beef with creamy mushroom soup and crispy tater tots, creating a meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. With its customizable nature, you can easily adapt the ingredients to suit your family’s preferences or what you have on hand.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 400
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 25g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 600mg
Why Make Tater Tot Casserole
Tater Tot Casserole is not just a quick and easy meal; it’s also packed with nutrients. The combination of ground beef and frozen mixed vegetables provides a balanced meal with protein, vitamins, and minerals. Plus, the versatility of this casserole allows you to switch out the vegetables or even make it vegetarian, providing something for everyone. Whether you need a dish for a family gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, Tater Tot Casserole fits the bill.
How to Make Tater Tot Casserole Step by Step
Ingredients
Ground Beef: 1 pound (provides a hearty, savory base)
Onion: 1 small, diced (adds flavor and texture)
Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon (for seasoning the beef)
Cream of Mushroom Soup: 1 can (10.5 oz) (creates a creamy, cohesive filling)
Frozen Mixed Vegetables: 1 1/2 cups (adds color and nutrition)
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup (melty, savory richness)
Frozen Tater Tots: 1 bag (about 32 oz) (crispy topping and starch)
Salt and Pepper: To taste (enhances overall flavor)
Olive Oil or Butter: 1 tablespoon (for greasing the dish)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with oil or butter. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in garlic powder, salt, pepper, mixed vegetables, and cream of mushroom soup. Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the meat layer. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top. Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes until the tater tots are golden brown and the casserole is bubbling. Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving for easier slicing. Serve warm as a standalone dish or with a side salad.
How to Serve Tater Tot Casserole
Tater Tot Casserole is delightful on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick. Consider adding some sliced jalapeños for those who like a spicy twist.
How to Store Tater Tot Casserole
Store any leftovers of Tater Tot Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or bake it in the oven until heated through. If you want to freeze the casserole, make sure it’s completely cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw fully before reheating.
Expert Tips for Cooking Tater Tot Casserole
- For extra flavor, try adding Worcestershire sauce or your favorite seasonings to the beef mixture.
- Mix in some fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme for an aromatic twist.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based protein for a healthier option.
- Make sure to arrange the tater tots in a single layer for the best crispiness.
- Keep an eye on the casserole towards the end of baking; you want the tots golden brown but not burnt.
Delicious Variations of Tater Tot Casserole
For a spicy kick, add diced green chilies or jalapeños to the beef mixture. For a herbed version, mix in some Italian seasoning or fresh basil. You can also try a vegetarian option by replacing the ground beef with lentils or extra veggies for a wholesome twist.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tater Tot Casserole
What can I use instead of ground beef? You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based protein for a lighter option.
Can I make Tater Tot Casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking.
Is Tater Tot Casserole freezer-friendly? Absolutely! Just make sure it’s fully cooled before freezing, and thaw completely before reheating.
Conclusion
Tater Tot Casserole is a flavorful, easy-to-make meal that the whole family will love. Its convenience and adaptability make it a go-to dish for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and textures as you gather around the table!
Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground Beef provides a hearty, savory base
- 1 small Onion, diced adds flavor and texture
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder for seasoning the beef
- 1 can (10.5 oz) Cream of Mushroom Soup creates a creamy, cohesive filling
- 1.5 cups Frozen Mixed Vegetables adds color and nutrition
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese melty, savory richness
- 1 bag (about 32 oz) Frozen Tater Tots crispy topping and starch
- to taste Salt and Pepper enhances overall flavor
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil or Butter for greasing the dish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with oil or butter.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in garlic powder, salt, pepper, mixed vegetables, and cream of mushroom soup.
Assembly and Baking
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the meat layer.
- Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.
- Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes until the tater tots are golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
- Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving for easier slicing.
- Serve warm as a standalone dish or with a side salad.
