Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

why make this recipe

Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is a comforting and satisfying dish that brings together classic flavors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even potlucks. With its cheesy goodness and crispy tater tots, this casserole is a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, it requires minimal prep and uses simple ingredients you may already have in your kitchen.

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how to make Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional seasonings: garlic powder, paprika, or any favorite spices

Directions:

1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ground beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Add diced onions and cook until they soften. Season with salt, pepper, and any optional spices like garlic powder or paprika. Drain any excess fat.
3. Combine with cream sauce: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream, mixing well with the beef. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
4. Layer in the casserole dish: Grease a casserole dish and spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom.
5. Add cheese layer: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
6. Add tater tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.
7. Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
8. Add final cheese layer: Remove the casserole from the oven and top with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.

how to serve Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

Tater Tot Casserole is best served warm. You can enjoy it as a main dish, and it pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables. For added flavor, consider serving it with hot sauce or ketchup.

how to store Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

You can store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for quick heating.

tips to make Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

• To save time, you can use pre-cooked ground beef.
• Experiment with different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella, for a new flavor twist.
• Add some vegetables like peas or corn for extra nutrition and variety.
• Make sure to grease the casserole dish well to prevent sticking.

variation

You can turn this casserole into a vegetarian dish by substituting the ground beef with cooked lentils or black beans. Additionally, swap the cream of mushroom soup for a vegetable soup for a lighter option.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?

   • Yes, you can use thinly sliced or diced fresh potatoes. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as they may take longer to become tender.

2. Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

   • Yes, you can use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure your tater tots are gluten-free.

3. Can I freeze Tater Tot Casserole?

   • Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked casserole. Just cover it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra cooking time.

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