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John Wayne Casserole

A hearty and comforting casserole featuring layers of seasoned beef, creamy cheese, and crispy tater tots, all cooked in a slow cooker for minimal fuss.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 580
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the casserole base
  • 32 ounces frozen tater tots about 2-3 servings per 10-12 tots
  • 1 pound ground beef 80/20 gives good flavor
  • 2 cups frozen peppers and onions mixed
  • 1 ounce envelope taco seasoning mix or homemade taco seasoning
  • 2/3 cup water
For the creamy layer
  • 16 ounces sour cream regular or light
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided into 1 cup for mixing and 1 cup for topping
For serving
  • scallions for topping
  • tomatoes for topping
  • non-stick spray for the slow cooker

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Spray the slow cooker with non-stick spray and arrange the frozen tater tots in a single, even layer across the bottom.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high. Add the ground beef and frozen peppers and onions. Brown, breaking the meat into small pieces.
  3. Drain excess fat from the skillet. Return to the heat.
  4. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the meat mixture, pour in 2/3 cup water, and simmer for about 5 minutes until the mixture is saucy and slightly thickened.
Cooking
  1. Spoon the seasoned meat evenly over the tater tots in the slow cooker.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth.
  3. Spread the sour-cream-and-cheese mixture over the meat layer in the slow cooker. Smooth it gently with a spatula.
  4. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking so the heat stays steady.
  5. After 4 hours, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese across the top, cover until the cheese melts (about 5–10 minutes).
Serving
  1. Top with sliced scallions and diced tomatoes just before serving. Scoop portions so each serving gets tots, meat, and the creamy cheese layer.

Notes

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. They will keep for 3–4 days. For best texture when reheating, place portions in the oven.