Shepherd’s Pie Tater Tot Casserole

Why Make This Recipe

Shepherd’s Pie Tater Tot Casserole is a fun twist on a classic dish. It brings together the comforting flavors of shepherd’s pie with the crispy goodness of tater tots. This recipe is not only easy to make but also a hit with both kids and adults. If you’re looking for a hearty meal that’s quick to prepare and sure to please, this casserole is the way to go!

How to Make Shepherd’s Pie Tater Tot Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 bag frozen tater tots
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/8 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned.
3. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
4. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and mixed vegetables.
5. Add the seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder) to the mixture.
6. Pour the mixture into a casserole dish and top with a layer of tater tots.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then sprinkle cheese on top and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and tater tots are golden brown.

How to Serve Shepherd’s Pie Tater Tot Casserole

Serve the casserole hot from the oven. It pairs well with a simple salad or steamed vegetables. Spoon out generous helpings and enjoy this delightful comfort food.

How to Store Shepherd’s Pie 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 will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions for later. Just make sure to use an airtight container, and it can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Tips to Make Shepherd’s Pie Tater Tot Casserole

• You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• For extra flavor, add Worcestershire sauce or a splash of hot sauce to the meat mixture.
• Feel free to experiment with different frozen vegetables based on your preference.

Variation

You can turn this into a vegetarian dish by replacing the ground beef with cooked lentils or mushrooms. Just make sure to adjust the seasonings to taste to ensure it’s as flavorful as the traditional version!

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade soup instead of cream of mushroom soup?
Yes, you can use homemade cream of mushroom soup. This will add a fresh taste to the casserole.

2. How long can I keep leftovers in the freezer?
Leftovers can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just make sure to use an airtight container.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Just bake it when you are ready to eat!