why make this recipe
This Tater Tot Casserole is easy, filling, and kid-friendly. You can make it fast with simple ingredients. It uses beef, creamy soup, cheese, and tater tots. If you like one-dish dinners, this works well. For another simple bake with beef and potatoes, try this beef hash brown casserole: beef hash brown casserole.
introduction
Tater Tot Casserole is a warm, comfort food dish. It cooks in one pan and feeds a family. You do not need fancy skills. Brown the beef, mix in soup, top with cheese and tater tots, and bake. For sweet side ideas, you might like this sweet potato casserole: southern maple sweet potato casserole.
how to make Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients :
1 lb ground beef, 1 onion, diced, 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots, Salt and pepper to taste
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until the beef is cooked through. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and season with salt and pepper.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots over the cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
how to serve Tater Tot Casserole
Cut the casserole into squares and serve hot. Add a green salad or steamed vegetables on the side. You can top with chopped green onions or a dollop of sour cream.
how to store Tater Tot Casserole
Let the casserole cool to room temperature. Cover the dish with foil or place pieces in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, or microwave single servings.
tips to make Tater Tot Casserole
- Season the beef well with salt and pepper while cooking.
- Drain fat from the beef to avoid a soggy casserole.
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mix.
- If you want more crunch, bake a few extra minutes or broil the top 1-2 minutes, watching closely.
- You can add frozen peas or corn to the beef mix for more vegetables.
- For a similar but different dish, see this beef hash brown casserole: another beef hash brown casserole.
variation (if any)
- Use cream of chicken soup instead of mushroom for a milder taste.
- Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or a mix of cheeses.
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter dish.
- Add mushrooms, bell pepper, or cooked bacon for extra flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes if cold.
Q: Can I freeze the casserole?
A: You can freeze cooked casserole in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Q: Do I need to thaw the tater tots first?
A: No. Use frozen tater tots straight from the bag. They cook and crisp in the oven.
Q: Can I use homemade tater tots or mashed potatoes?
A: Yes. Homemade tots or a mashed potato topping work, but bake times may change.
Q: How can I make it less salty?
A: Use low-sodium cream soup and a milder cheese. Taste the beef mix before adding more salt.
Conclusion
For a full video and step-by-step guide, see this Tater Tot Casserole Recipe (with Video).
Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until the beef is cooked through. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and season with salt and pepper.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in a 9 x 13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots over the cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.