Why Make This Recipe
Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is a hearty and comforting dish that is sure to please everyone at the table. It’s not only easy to prepare, but it also combines flavorful ingredients into one satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, as it requires minimal prep and cook time while delivering a delicious and filling dish.
How to Make Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until browned. Make sure to drain any excess grease.
- Add the garlic powder, salt, black pepper, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese to the beef mixture. Stir well to combine.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in the greased baking dish. Top it with tater tots and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley.
How to Serve Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef
Serve the Tater Tot Casserole warm directly from the oven. It pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. You can also offer additional toppings like hot sauce or extra cheese, making it customizable to taste.
How to Store Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef
Store any leftover Tater Tot Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3–4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until hot throughout. If you want to freeze it, you can do so before baking. Just assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake it directly from frozen, just adding extra time.
Tips to Make Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef
- Use Lean Ground Beef: A leaner ground beef will reduce the amount of grease in the casserole.
- Add Extra Veggies: Consider adding vegetables like frozen peas, corn, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Choose Your Cheese: Feel free to mix and match different types of cheese. Pepper jack or mozzarella can add a tasty twist.
Variation
You can easily make this casserole with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Additionally, try using different cream soups, like cream of chicken, for a new flavor. If you prefer a spicy kick, you might add jalapeños or spices like cayenne pepper.
FAQs
1. Can I make Tater Tot Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step in advance, cover it, and keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
2. Can I use fresh tater tots instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh tater tots can work as a substitute, but adjust the cooking time as needed based on how quickly they cook.
3. What can I serve with Tater Tot Casserole?
A simple side salad, coleslaw, or steamed vegetables are great companions to enhance your meal.
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Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef Use lean ground beef to reduce grease.
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup Can substitute with other cream soups.
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided) Reserve 1 cup for later.
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots Fresh tater tots can be substituted.
- to taste chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until browned. Make sure to drain any excess grease.
- Add the garlic powder, salt, black pepper, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese to the beef mixture. Stir well to combine.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in the greased baking dish. Top it with tater tots and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
Cooking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley.