Tater tot casserole with ground beef is the ultimate comfort food! This hearty dish, a nostalgic favorite for many, is surprisingly easy to make and always a crowd pleaser. Thinking back, my grandma’s kitchen always smelled like onions sautéing whenever she made tater tot casserole with ground beef. It’s a memory I cherish, and it’s why I’m so excited to share my version with you. Simplicity and flavor are the name of the game here, so get ready for a dish that brings smiles to your table.
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Why You Will Love This tater tot casserole with ground beef Recipe
This tater tot casserole with ground beef recipe is beloved for so many reasons. First, it’s incredibly comforting. Imagine crispy tater tots atop a savory, seasoned ground beef mixture—it’s pure bliss!
Next, this recipe is quick to throw together, especially on a busy weeknight. You can prep it in under 30 minutes and let the oven do the rest. Plus, the flavor is phenomenal! Cheesy, beefy, and perfectly seasoned, it’s a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. And because it uses simple ingredients, it’s truly an achievable recipe that works for everyone.
Follow us on Pinterest for more delicious and easy recipes like this one! By the way, did you know this pairs well with a batch of Soft Gingerbread Cookies With Maple Glaze 3 for dessert?
Ingredients Needed for This tater tot casserole with ground beef Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to create this deliciously simple casserole:
- Ground Beef: 1 pound
- Onion: 1 medium, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: 1 (10.75-ounce) can
- Milk: 1/2 cup
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1 1/2 cups, divided
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- Tater Tots: 1 (32-ounce) bag, frozen
- Optional Toppings: Sour cream, green onions, hot sauce
How to Make This tater tot casserole with ground beef Recipe
Follow these easy steps to make your own tater tot casserole with ground beef:
- 1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- 2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- 3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes.
- 4. In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- 5. Add the cooked ground beef mixture to the bowl with the soup mixture. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
- 6. Pour the ground beef mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- 7. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the top of the ground beef mixture.
- 8. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots.
- 9. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and the casserole is heated through. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
How to Serve This tater tot casserole with ground beef Recipe
Serving this tater tot casserole with ground beef is where you can really personalize the experience. A dollop of sour cream adds a cool tang to balance the richness of the casserole. Chopped green onions sprinkled on top provide a fresh, vibrant crunch.
If you’re feeling adventurous, a dash of hot sauce can kick up the heat. As for side dishes, consider a simple green salad or steamed broccoli to add some freshness and color to the meal. And if you’re in the mood for more casserole goodness, be sure to check out this Easy Sausage And Egg Casserole Best Breakfast Recipe Ever for your next brunch! You can also think about a lighter dessert to round out the meal.
How to Store This tater tot casserole with ground beef Recipe
Proper storage ensures your tater tot casserole with ground beef stays delicious for later.
- Refrigeration: Let the casserole cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then a layer of aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Then, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.
Tips to Make This tater tot casserole with ground beef Recipe
Want to take your tater tot casserole with ground beef to the next level? Here are some tips:
- Ingredient Swaps: Substitute ground turkey or sausage for ground beef for a different flavor profile. For a vegetarian option, use plant-based ground meat substitute.
- Success Tips: Don’t overcrowd the skillet when browning the ground beef; cook in batches if necessary. This ensures the beef browns properly and doesn’t steam.
- Common Mistakes to Avoid: Avoid overcooking the casserole, which can dry out the beef and make the tater tots soggy.
- To save time, you can easily prep the ground beef mixture a day (or even two!) in advance; store the topping separately and combine just before baking.
Helpful Notes for This tater tot casserole with ground beef Recipe
A few extra notes can ensure your tater tot casserole with ground beef turns out perfectly every time.
- Ingredient Details: I recommend using a cheddar cheese that you shred yourself for better flavor and melting. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting as smoothly.
- Equipment Recommendations: A 9×13 inch baking dish is ideal for this recipe, but you can also use a slightly smaller dish if needed. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.
- Soup Choice: While cream of mushroom soup is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cream-based soups like cream of celery or cream of chicken for a different flavor twist.
Variation of This tater tot casserole with ground beef Recipe
There are countless ways to customize your tater tot casserole with ground beef!
- Seasonal Twists: Add a can of drained and rinsed diced tomatoes with green chilies for a Southwestern flair, or incorporate roasted vegetables like butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a fall-inspired version.
- Optional Versions: Layer in some bacon for added smoky flavor. It’s important to start with a solid foundation. Make sure you begin with the instructions in this article, and then tweak any options to your individual preferences. After you’re finished here, why not try this Best Blueberry French Toast Casserole Easy Breakfast Recipe?
- Creative Modifications: Add a layer of sauteed bell peppers and onions for extra flavor and nutrients. You could also mix in some cooked corn or peas for added texture and sweetness.
How do you keep tater tot casserole with ground beef from being soggy?
To prevent sogginess, ensure the ground beef is properly drained after cooking. Also, avoid using watery ingredients like canned tomatoes; opt for tomato paste or a thicker sauce. Baking at a higher temperature can also help crisp the tater tots.
What is the best way to thaw tater tots?
It’s generally best not to thaw tater tots before adding them to the casserole, as this can make them soggy. Add the frozen tater tots directly to the top of the casserole before baking to ensure they crisp up nicely in the oven.
What are some good variations for tater tot casserole with ground beef?
You can easily customize tater tot casserole! Try adding different cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack. Mix in vegetables like corn, green beans, or diced bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with different sauces or spices to adjust the taste.
Can I make tater tot casserole with ground beef ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add the tater tots just before baking to prevent them from becoming soggy. You may need to add a few minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Conclusion
This tater tot casserole with ground beef is more than just a recipe; it’s a comforting hug in a dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any time you need a simple, satisfying meal. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe as much as I do. Feel free to leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out!
