Looking for a delicious and easy recipe that is perfect for any occasion? Look no further than this Tater Tot Casserole! Packed with savory ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and crispy tater tots, this dish is sure to become a family favorite in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Great flavors: The combination of ground beef, mushroom soup, and cheddar cheese creates a rich and comforting flavor profile.
- Quick prep time: With just a few simple ingredients, you can have this casserole ready to bake in no time.
- Perfect for meal prep: This dish reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prepping lunches or dinners for the week.
Ingredient Notes:
- Ground beef: Adds protein and hearty flavor to the dish.
- Small onion and garlic: Provide aromatic depth and flavor.
- Cream of mushroom soup: Creates a creamy and rich sauce for the casserole.
- Corn: Adds a touch of sweetness and texture.
- Cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a cheesy layer to the casserole.
- Tater tots: Provide a crispy and satisfying topping.
- Salt, pepper, and olive oil: Seasonings to enhance the overall taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onions are soft.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, corn, and half of the cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with a layer of tater tots.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the tater tots and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
Helpful Tips:
- For a crispier topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
- Feel free to add your favorite veggies like peas or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
- You can use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for the best melting and flavor.
- Customize the seasonings to your taste preferences by adding herbs like thyme or paprika.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this Tater Tot Casserole with a side of green salad or steamed veggies for a well-rounded meal. Pair it with a crisp white wine or a refreshing beer for a delicious dining experience.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
To store leftovers, cover the casserole dish with foil or transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen ground beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen ground beef, just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. - Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and bake it when ready to serve. - Can I use a different type of cheese?
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist on this classic dish.
Conclusion:
Now that you have the recipe for this delicious Tater Tot Casserole, it’s time to get cooking! Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out!
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Quick Ground Beef Recipe (Tater Tot Casserole)
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This quick and easy ground beef tater tot casserole is a comforting dish that the whole family will love. It’s loaded with savory ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, sweet corn, and topped with crispy tater tots and melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can corn, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 bag frozen tater tots
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brown the beef: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, then add the ground beef. Cook until browned, then drain excess fat.
- Assemble the casserole: In a baking dish, layer the beef mixture, cream of mushroom soup, corn, and cheddar cheese. Top with tater tots in a single layer.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving and enjoy!
Notes
- This recipe is customizable, feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices.
- You can use ground turkey or chicken as a healthier alternative.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg