Easy & Delicious Tater Tot Casserole
Introduction
Tater Tot Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that everyone loves! It’s packed with flavor and is super easy to make. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish will quickly become a favorite at your table.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is simple and quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for those hectic days. Plus, who can resist crispy tater tots topped with gooey melted cheese? It’s a meal that brings smiles and satisfaction to your family, just like it does in mine!
How to Make Easy & Delicious Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey (or plant-based ground meat)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 onion, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. If using onion, add it to the skillet and cook until softened. Drain any excess fat.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked meat, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and half of the shredded cheese. Stir until well mixed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Layer the frozen tater tots evenly over the top of the meat mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Easy & Delicious Tater Tot Casserole
You can serve this casserole hot right out of the oven. It makes a fantastic main dish paired with a simple salad or some steamed veggies on the side. Your family will be asking for seconds!
How to Store Easy & Delicious Tater Tot Casserole
If you have leftovers (if there are any!), let the casserole cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days. To reheat, just pop it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Tips to Make Easy & Delicious Tater Tot Casserole
- You can substitute the ground meat with canned beans or lentils for a vegetarian option.
- Feel free to add your favorite seasonings for extra flavor!
- Make sure to spread the tater tots evenly for that perfect crunch on every bite.
Variation
Try adding vegetables like frozen peas or corn into the meat mixture for added nutrition and flavor. You can also use different types of cheese, like mozzarella or Mexican blend!
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots? Yes, you can use fresh potatoes, but it may require additional cooking time to get them crispy.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat.
Is this recipe gluten-free? This recipe uses cream of mushroom soup, which may contain gluten. Look for gluten-free versions of the soup to make it gluten-free.