Tater Tot Casserole With Ground Beef

Name: Tater Tot Casserole With Ground Beef
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion (diced); 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables; 1 can cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 bag frozen tater tots; Salt and pepper to taste

Are you ready to dive into a scrumptious dish that combines crispy tater tots with savory ground beef? This tater tot casserole with ground beef is not only easy to prepare but also promises to be a hit with the whole family. With layers of flavor and texture, this dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
– 1 can cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 bag frozen tater tots
– Salt and pepper to taste

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, while cooking time is around 45 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Per serving (1/6 of the casserole): approximately 350 calories, 20g fat, 25g carbohydrates, and 15g protein. This nutritional information is calculated based on one serving.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
3. Add diced onion and cook until softened.
4. Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and heat through.
5. Mix in the cream of mushroom soup and season with salt and pepper.
6. Spread the beef mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
8. Arrange the frozen tater tots on top in a single layer.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes until the tater tots are golden brown.
10. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Alternative Ingredients

Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter version. Additionally, you can use fresh vegetables instead of frozen, or swap cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken soup for a different flavor.

Serving and Pairings

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of green onions for added flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers 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. You can also freeze the casserole before baking; just ensure it’s well-wrapped.

Cooking Mistakes

Not browning the meat thoroughly can lead to a bland flavor.
Overcooking the tater tots can make them soggy.
Using too much soup can make the dish watery.
Skipping the cheese will result in less richness.
Not letting the casserole cool slightly before serving can make it difficult to cut.

Helpful Tips

For a spicy kick, add some diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
Ensure even cooking by spreading the tater tots in a single layer.
Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
Use a non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh vegetables can be used, but you may need to sauté them briefly before adding them to the beef mixture.

How do I know when it’s done cooking?

The casserole is done when the tater tots are golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.

Can I add other meats to this recipe?

Yes, you can mix in cooked sausage or shredded chicken for added flavor and texture.

Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just ensure it is wrapped properly to avoid freezer burn.

Conclusion

Tater tot casserole with ground beef is a delightful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. With its layers of flavor and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite for family dinners. Enjoy every bite of this delicious comfort food!