Why Make This Recipe
Tater Tot Casserole is a comforting dish that combines a mix of hearty ingredients into a simple meal. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its cheesy goodness and crispy tater tots on top, this casserole is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. It also makes for great leftovers, making it a convenient choice for meal prep.
How to Make Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp. olive oil
- 1/2 yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed mushroom soup
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup frozen cut green beans
- 3/4 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup frozen corn
- 4 oz. cheddar cheese, grated (about 1 cup)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 3 1/2 cups frozen tater tots
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 450ºF.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is no longer pink, about 4 to 5 minutes.
- Stir in the mushroom soup, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook until warmed through, about 1 minute.
- Add the green beans, peas, and corn. Stir occasionally until warmed through, about 1 minute.
- Remove from heat and mix in the cheddar cheese until it’s melted.
- Transfer the mixture to an 8-by-8-inch baking dish. Layer the tater tots on top and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake on a rimmed baking sheet until the tater tots are crispy, about 30 to 35 minutes.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Tater Tot Casserole
Serve Tater Tot Casserole hot from the oven. It goes well with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also top it with some chopped green onions or sour cream for an extra flair.
How to Store Tater Tot Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it by covering it tightly and storing it in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Tips to Make Tater Tot Casserole
- For extra flavor, add some spices like paprika or Italian seasoning.
- If you prefer a spicy twist, include some diced jalapeños or hot sauce in the meat mixture.
- You can use turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter version.
Variation
You can switch up the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Try using frozen mixed vegetables or diced carrots for a different taste. You can also experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I make Tater Tot Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the day before. Assemble it, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh vegetables work too! Just make sure to cook them a bit before adding them to the casserole.
3. Is it possible to make Tater Tot Casserole without meat?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with black beans or a mixture of your favorite vegetables for a vegetarian option.
