Tater tot casserole is a beloved dish that combines crispy tater tots with a creamy, savory filling. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to serve something hearty and satisfying. This recipe is easy to make and sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 (15-ounce) can green beans, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (32-ounce) bag frozen tater tots
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground beef mixture, condensed cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, and drained green beans. Add salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce (if using) to taste. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this comforting dish with your favorite sides or on its own!
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as directed.
Q: Can I use a different type of meat? A: Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage can be used in place of ground beef. Just make sure to cook the meat thoroughly before adding it to the casserole.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze tater tot casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Q: What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup? A: If you prefer not to use canned soup, you can make a homemade version by combining 2 tablespoons of butter, 2 tablespoons of flour, 1 cup of chicken broth, and 1 cup of milk. Cook until thickened and use in place of the canned soup.
Q: Can I add vegetables to the casserole? A: Yes, this recipe is very versatile. You can add vegetables like corn, peas, carrots, or bell peppers to the beef mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian? A: Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by using a meat substitute like crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Use a cream of mushroom soup that is vegetarian or make a homemade version with vegetable broth.
This tater tot casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its creamy filling and crispy topping make it a perfect addition to any meal. Enjoy!