Description
Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt & pepper to taste
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
Directions
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the Meat: In a skillet, cook ground beef with diced onion over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine the cooked beef, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and frozen vegetables. Stir well.
Assemble the Casserole: Spread the beef mixture evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top. Arrange frozen tater tots on top in a single layer.
Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving. Scoop and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Calories: ~400 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect casserole every time. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped and measured. When cooking the beef and onion, cook until the onion is translucent and the beef is fully browned, not just gray, for maximum flavor. After draining the fat, let the mixture cool slightly before combining it with the soup and sour cream to prevent curdling. When assembling, press the beef mixture down firmly into the dish to create an even base. Place the tater tots in neat, tight rows to ensure full coverage and even cooking. The final bake with the last cup of cheese should be monitored closely to melt the cheese without overcooking the tots.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a brunch twist, top individual servings with a fried egg. Garnish with fresh chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Leftovers reheat beautifully in the air fryer to recrisp the tots.
How-to Summary
Brown beef with onion, mix with soup, sour cream, seasonings, and veggies. Layer in a dish, top with half the cheese, a single layer of tater tots, and bake. Finish with the remaining cheese and bake until melted. Cool slightly and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, assemble the casserole completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup? Cream of chicken, celery, or a homemade white sauce are excellent substitutes. For a healthier version, consider a low-sodium condensed soup.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen? Absolutely. Use about 1.5 cups of diced fresh vegetables like carrots, peas, and corn. Sauté them with the onion until tender-crisp before adding the beef.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F until warm to maintain the best texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, ensure your tater tots are certified gluten-free and use a gluten-free cream soup or a gluten-free roux-based sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not draining the excess fat from the cooked beef, which can make the final dish greasy.
- Using tater tots that are still frozen solid; letting them sit out for 5-10 minutes while you prep can help them cook more evenly.
- Overmixing the beef and soup filling, which can break down the beef texture. Stir just until combined.
- Baking in a dish that’s too small, which steams the tots instead of crisping them. Always use a 9×13-inch dish.
- Adding all the cheese at the beginning, which can lead to it burning or becoming rubbery. The two-stage addition is key.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate reliable comfort food, combining simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing meal. Its versatility allows for easy customization based on dietary needs or pantry contents. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a perfectly crispy, cheesy, and satisfying dinner that promises to become a regular in your recipe rotation. It’s a timeless dish that delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss.