Why Make This Recipe
Tater Tot Casserole is a comforting dish that brings together simple ingredients for a hearty meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something easy and delicious. This recipe is also great for families, as it is loved by both kids and adults. Plus, it can be made ahead of time and stored for later, making it a practical choice for any occasion.
How to Make Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 bag tater tots
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef and onion over medium heat until the beef is browned; drain excess fat.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and season with salt and pepper.
- In a greased baking dish, spread the beef mixture evenly.
- Top with a layer of tater tots, then sprinkle cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Tater Tot Casserole
Tater Tot Casserole is best served warm right out of the oven. You can dish it up on plates or serve directly from the baking dish. It pairs well with a simple salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
How to Store Tater Tot Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze Tater Tot Casserole for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Tater Tot Casserole
- For extra flavor, you can add spices like garlic powder or paprika to the beef mixture.
- If you like a crunchier topping, you can bake the casserole a little longer.
- Consider using different types of cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, to change the flavor.
Variation
You can make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with cooked lentils or black beans. You can also add frozen vegetables, like peas or corn, to the beef mixture for added nutrition.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can use turkey, chicken, or even sausage instead of ground beef for different flavors.Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. Bake it when you’re ready to eat.Can I use homemade cream of mushroom soup?
Yes, homemade cream of mushroom soup can be used instead of the canned version. Just make sure it’s thick enough to hold the casserole together.
Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef Can be substituted with turkey, chicken, or sausage.
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup Homemade version can be used.
- 1 cup shredded cheese Use cheddar, mozzarella, or your preference.
- 1 bag tater tots
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- to taste Salt and pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef and onion over medium heat until the beef is browned; drain excess fat.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and season with salt and pepper.
Assembly
- In a greased baking dish, spread the beef mixture evenly.
- Top with a layer of tater tots, then sprinkle cheese on top.
Cooking
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.