Why Make This Recipe
Tater Tot Casserole is a beloved comfort food that combines delicious flavors and simple ingredients. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family meal. With a mix of ground beef, creamy soup, and crispy tater tots, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s easy to make and doesn’t require any fancy cooking skills, making it an ideal choice for beginner cooks.
How to Make Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 package frozen tater tots
- 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 meat is no longer pink; drain the excess fat.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and season with salt and pepper.
- Spread the beef mixture in the bottom of a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef.
- Arrange the tater tots on top of the cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the tater tots are golden brown.
- Serve hot and enjoy your comforting dish!
How to Serve Tater Tot Casserole
Tater Tot Casserole can be served as a main dish. Pair it with a simple green salad or some steamed vegetables to add freshness. For extra flavor, consider serving it with hot sauce or ketchup on the side.
How to Store Tater Tot Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it. Wrap it well and it can last for up to three months in the freezer.
Tips to Make Tater Tot Casserole
- For added flavor, you can add garlic or bell peppers when cooking the beef and onion.
- Try mixing in some vegetables like frozen corn or peas for extra nutrition.
- Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique taste.
Variation
You can make a breakfast version of Tater Tot Casserole by adding scrambled eggs and switching to sausage instead of ground beef. It makes for a hearty morning meal that is also easy to prepare.
FAQs
Can I use fresh vegetables in Tater Tot Casserole?
Yes, you can add fresh vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
How do I make Tater Tot Casserole ahead of time?
You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and store it in the fridge for a day. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Can I use a different protein besides ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives can work well in this recipe.
Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 package frozen tater tots
- 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 meat is no longer pink; drain the excess fat.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and season with salt and pepper.
- Spread the beef mixture in the bottom of a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef.
- Arrange the tater tots on top of the cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the tater tots are golden brown.
- Serve hot and enjoy your comforting dish!