Name: Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz); ½ cup sour cream; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided (1 cup for layering, 1 cup for topping); 1 bag frozen tater tots (32 oz); to taste Salt and pepper (Use according to preference); Optional seasonings: garlic powder, paprika, or any favorite spices

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Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is a comforting and satisfying dish that strikes a chord with many. Whether it’s a chilly evening, a busy weeknight, or just one of those days when you need something hearty without all the fuss, this casserole delivers. Layered with ground beef, creamy goodness, and topped with crispy tater tots, it’s sure to become a family favorite. I remember the first time I made this; it was a hit with both kids and adults alike, bringing smiles all around the dinner table!

Why make this recipe

There’s something irresistibly attractive about Tater Tot Casserole. For starters, it’s a budget-friendly meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also appeals to even the pickiest eaters. Just think of it: tender ground beef, creamy soup, and crunchy tater tots melded together into one delicious casserole. It’s a one-dish wonder that feeds a crowd with minimum effort, making it ideal for family gatherings or potlucks.

“This casserole is my go-to for quick dinners! My kids can’t get enough of the crispy tater tots, and I love how easy it is to make.” – A happy home cook

The cooking process explained

Making Tater Tot Casserole is as easy as 1-2-3! You’ll start by browning the ground beef with onions, mix in some creamy goodness, and then layer it all up with delicious tater tots and cheese. This step-by-step breakdown gives you a clear view of how the magic happens—they’re all simple steps packed with flavor, so get ready to dive into a comforting dish that’s all about satisfaction and ease.

What you’ll need

Here’s the simple ingredient list to gather:

1 lb ground beef
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
½ cup sour cream
1 small onion, diced
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional seasonings: garlic powder, paprika, or any favorite spices

Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add different cheeses to customize it to your taste!

Step-by-step instructions

Preheat oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the ground beef: In a skillet set over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Once it’s nearly done, add in the diced onions and cook until they soften. Season with salt, pepper, and your choice of optional spices. Drain any excess fat.
Combine with cream sauce: Now stir in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream, mixing everything well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until it’s heated through.
Layer in the casserole dish: Next, grease a casserole dish and evenly spread the beef mixture across the bottom.
Add cheese layer: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef.
Add tater tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer atop the cheese.
Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
Add final cheese layer: Finally, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before serving.

Best ways to enjoy it

When it comes to serving Tater Tot Casserole, there are endless possibilities! You can serve it with a fresh side salad to balance out the richness or pair it with some garlic bread for dipping. It’s also fantastic topped with a dollop of sour cream or hot sauce for an added kick.

Storage and reheating tips

To keep your delicious casserole fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. If you need to reheat it, simply pop it back into the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Want to make it ahead of time? Freeze individual portions for later; just be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn!

Helpful cooking tips

For a zesty twist, consider adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture while it cooks.
You can use low-fat substitutions, like reduced-fat sour cream and cheese, to lighten it up without sacrificing flavor.
Feeling adventurous? Try adding a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for some extra heat!

Creative twists

Why not switch things up? Here are a few fun variations:

Spicy Mexican Style: Add cooked black beans, corn, and a dash of taco seasoning to the beef. Top with pepper jack cheese and serve with salsa.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with lentils or black beans and use a plant-based cream soup.
Loaded Version: Top the casserole with crispy bacon or jalapeños for an extra crunch!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the prep time for Tater Tot Casserole?

You can whip this casserole up in just 15 minutes of prep time, making it a quick choice for a busy evening.

Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup?

Yes! If you’re not a fan of mushroom, you can substitute it with cream of chicken soup or even a homemade white sauce for a customizable option.

How can I safely store leftovers?

Ensure the casserole is cooled to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it properly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.

This Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is more than a meal; it’s a nostalgic dish that brings families together. Serve it up, enjoy the smiles, and create beautiful memories—all with one delicious bake!