Oh, the joys of comfort food! This tater tot and ground beef casserole is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution that’s both hearty and delicious. Perfect for those evenings when you crave something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why This Recipe Works
- It’s a one-pan wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time to relax.
- The combination of crispy tater tots and savory ground beef is a match made in comfort food heaven.
- Customizable with your favorite cheeses and veggies, making it a versatile dish for any palate.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onions, cooking until the beef is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Tip: Draining the excess fat will make your casserole less greasy.
Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Base
In a mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk, stirring until smooth. This will be the creamy base of your casserole. Pour this mixture over the cooked ground beef in the skillet, stirring to combine evenly.
Step 3: Layer the Tater Tots
Transfer the beef mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the beef mixture. Tip: For extra crispiness, spray the tater tots lightly with cooking spray before baking.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bake the casserole uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking for a melty finish.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to scoop out perfect portions. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to elevate this dish, consider browning the tater tots in the oven for a few minutes before adding them to the casserole for extra crunch. Another pro tip is to mix in some frozen peas and carrots with the ground beef for added nutrition and color. If you’re short on time, prepping the beef mixture the night before can save you precious minutes. Lastly, experimenting with different types of cheese, like pepper jack or mozzarella, can add a fun twist to the flavor profile.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add a layer of sautéed mushrooms and spinach between the beef and tater tots for a veggie-packed variation.
- Use sweet potato tots instead of regular for a sweeter, healthier twist.
- Top with crispy bacon bits before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
- For a spicy kick, mix in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the beef mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re starting from cold.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
Yes, but you’ll need to parboil and slice the potatoes thinly to ensure they cook through in the same amount of time as the tater tots would. This variation will require a bit more prep work but can be just as delicious.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure your tater tots are certified gluten-free. Most major brands offer gluten-free options, so this substitution is easy to make.
Summary
This tater tot and ground beef casserole is the epitome of comfort food, combining savory beef, creamy soup, and crispy tots into one delicious dish. It’s easy to make, customizable, and sure to please the whole family.