Description
Hearty midwest classic “Tater Tot Casserole” delivers comfort through layers of ground beef, creamy sauce, and crispy potato crowns. Perfect for family dinners, this casserole brings warmth and satisfaction to hungry tables.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 package (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 1 can (15 oz) green beans or mixed vegetables, drained
Dairy and Soup:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
Aromatics and Seasonings:
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the culinary landscape by warming the oven to a toasty 375°F (190°C) and coating a 9×13-inch baking vessel with non-stick essence.
- Transform ground beef in a sizzling skillet, introducing diced onions and creating a rich, caramelized foundation. Incorporate minced garlic for an aromatic boost, then release any lingering fat. Season the meat medley with harmonizing spices.
- Craft the casserole’s heart by merging the seasoned beef with creamy mushroom soup, tangy sour cream, melty cheddar, and vibrant vegetables into a cohesive mixture. Distribute this flavorful canvas evenly across the prepared baking dish.
- Construct a crispy armor of frozen tater tots, meticulously arranging them to create a complete protective layer. Optional: Sprinkle an additional cascade of cheddar for heightened indulgence.
- Guide the casserole through a transformative 35-40 minute oven journey, allowing the tots to develop a golden, crunchy exterior while the underlying filling bubbles with anticipation. For an ultimate crisp finale, unleash a brief broiler embrace.
- Allow the casserole a momentary rest, then adorn with fresh herbal whispers of parsley or green onions. Serve immediately, presenting a comforting culinary masterpiece ready to delight.
Notes
- Customize the protein by swapping ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian version.
- Prep vegetables ahead of time to streamline the cooking process and reduce overall meal preparation time.
- Replace cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or a homemade cream sauce for different flavor profiles and dietary needs.
- Use gluten-free tater tots and soup to make this recipe completely gluten-free without compromising taste or texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 43 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg