Tater Tot Casserole is a comforting, family-friendly dish that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. This classic casserole features layers of seasoned ground beef and vegetables, topped with a creamy sauce and crowned with a crispy layer of golden tater tots. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering a delicious combination of flavors and textures in every bite. The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it with your favorite vegetables and seasonings, making it a go-to option for a hearty and comforting dinner that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 package (32 ounces) frozen tater tots
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, until the onion is softened.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix until well combined.
- Add Vegetables and Cheese: Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the beef mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the top of the beef mixture.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Add Cheese and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted. Serve hot.
Tater Tot Casserole is a deliciously comforting dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a cozy family dinner. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, it’s sure to become a beloved favorite in your household.
