Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is a quintessential American comfort dish that brings together savory ground beef, creamy sauces, and crispy tater tots in a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. This hearty casserole is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a satisfying meal.
Classic Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef
Ingredients
To create this delectable casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Ground Beef: 1 pound of lean ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for optimal flavor and moisture).
- Onion: ½ cup diced white onion.
- Garlic: 2 cloves minced.
- Salt and Pepper: ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: One 10.5-ounce can.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: One 10.5-ounce can.
- Sour Cream: ½ cup.
- Frozen Vegetables: 15 ounces of sweet kernel corn and 14.5 ounces of green beans, drained.
- Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups shredded.
- Tater Tots: 32 ounces frozen.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 425°F (218°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Ground Beef Mixture:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Introduce the ground beef to the skillet, cooking until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease to avoid a greasy casserole. Season with salt and pepper.
- Prepare the Creamy Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Mix until smooth.
- Add the drained corn and green beans to the mixture, stirring to incorporate.
- Fold in the cooked ground beef mixture, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Pour the creamy beef and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture, covering it completely.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese, ensuring they cover the entire surface.
- Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the filling is bubbly.
- Serve:
- Allow the casserole to cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the filling set and makes serving easier.
Tips for the Perfect Casserole
- Cheese Selection: While cheddar is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetable Variations: You can substitute or add other vegetables such as peas, carrots, or bell peppers based on your preference.
- Crispy Tots: For extra crispy tater tots, consider baking them separately for 10 minutes before placing them on the casserole.
Variations and Substitutions
- Protein Alternatives: Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Soup Substitutes: If you’re not a fan of canned soups, you can make a homemade white sauce using butter, flour, and milk.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for some heat.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. For a Southern twist, serve it alongside collard greens or cornbread.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until warmed through.
FAQ Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Can I use fresh vegetables instead of canned?
- Absolutely! Just ensure they are cooked or blanched before adding to the casserole to ensure they are tender.
- How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
- Use gluten-free canned soups or make your own gluten-free white sauce. Also, ensure the tater tots you use are certified gluten-free.
- What other cheeses can I use?
- Mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda can be great alternatives or additions to cheddar.
- Can I add spices for more flavor?
- Certainly! Consider adding paprika, Italian seasoning, or cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for enhanced flavor.
This Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is a comforting classic that never fails to please! With its crispy golden tater tots, cheesy layers, and hearty beef filling, it’s the perfect go-to recipe for busy weeknights or potlucks. Whether you’re making it as-is or adding your own twist, this dish is bound to become a family favorite.
If you’re looking for a simple, satisfying meal that delivers on flavor and texture, this casserole is a must-try. Give it a shot, and let us know how it turns out in the comments! Happy cooking!
