Tater Tot Casserole – A Comforting Classic
Tater Tot Casserole is one of those nostalgic dishes that can transport you right back to childhood dinners on a cozy weeknight. It’s comfort food at its finest, combining savory ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, crispy tater tots, and gooey cheddar cheese into a dish that’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a casual gathering, this recipe is perfect for any occasion, bringing warmth and joy to your table.
Why you’ll love this dish
This Tater Tot Casserole is not just easy to make; it also checks all the boxes for a delicious meal. It’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and loved by kids and adults alike. Plus, the use of frozen tater tots means minimal prep time, and you can have dinner ready in no time. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back Sunday, this casserole is your go-to solution.
"I make Tater Tot Casserole once a month, and my kids absolutely love it! It’s their favorite comfort food, and I love how simple it is to whip up.” – Sarah J., a devoted home cook.
The cooking process explained
Making Tater Tot Casserole is a breeze! You’ll start by browning the ground beef with onions to create a flavorful base. Once that’s done, you’ll mix in the creamy mushroom soup, spread the mixture in a baking dish, top it with crispy tater tots, and finish it off with a sprinkle of cheese. It’s a satisfying, one-dish wonder that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
What you’ll need
Gather the following ingredients to create your perfect Tater Tot Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 bag frozen tater tots
- 1 small onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to customize this casserole to your liking. Swap out the cream of mushroom for cream of chicken, or substitute the ground beef for turkey or a meat alternative for a lighter twist!
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef and onions over medium heat until the beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, and season it with salt and pepper.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in a baking dish.
- Top with frozen tater tots, then sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese has melted.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serve your Tater Tot Casserole hot from the oven! It pairs wonderfully with a light green salad or steamed vegetables for some extra nutrients. For a fun twist, place a dollop of sour cream or a splash of hot sauce on top when serving, giving it a zesty kick.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your leftover Tater Tot Casserole fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If you’d like to freeze leftovers, make sure to use a freezer-safe dish, and it can last for up to three months.
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure to drain the excess fat from the beef after browning to prevent a greasy casserole.
- For added flavor, consider incorporating your favorite seasonings or herbs, like garlic powder or paprika.
- If you prefer extra crispy tater tots, bake them separately for the first 10 minutes before adding them to the casserole.
Creative twists
Looking to spice things up? Consider adding in some vegetables, like frozen peas or corn, for extra color and nutrition. You could also experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or a four-cheese blend for extra richness.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation and cooking time is around 45 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter dish.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, then bake it just before serving. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s going in cold.
Dive into this delightful Tater Tot Casserole, and enjoy a delicious meal that will have you and your family asking for seconds!
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Tater Tot Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
A nostalgic and comforting dish combining savory ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, crispy tater tots, and gooey cheddar cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 bag frozen tater tots
- 1 small onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef and onions over medium heat until the beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, and season with salt and pepper.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in a baking dish.
- Top with frozen tater tots, then sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese has melted.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider using garlic powder or paprika. You can also add vegetables like frozen peas or corn for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 65mg