Description
This delicious Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for a family dinner. It features savory ground beef cooked with onions and a creamy mushroom soup base, topped with crispy baked tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. Ready in just 45 minutes, this casserole is both simple to prepare and satisfyingly flavorful.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula as it browns. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Sauté the Onion: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the cooked beef and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent, enhancing the flavor base.
- Make the Creamy Beef Mixture: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and milk to the beef and onion mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until well combined and heated through.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Then, layer the frozen tater tots evenly over the top to create a crispy crust as they bake.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots turn golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Add Cheese and Final Bake: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving to let it set slightly. Enjoy this comforting, flavorful meal perfect for any occasion.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or celery soup based on your preference.
- For a bit of crunch, consider adding chopped green peppers or mushrooms when sautéing the onions.
- To make this dish gluten-free, ensure the cream of mushroom soup and tater tots are labeled gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
- Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder can enhance the seasoning of the beef mixture.
