Say hello to a comforting and delicious Tater Tot casserole! This hearty dish is an easy twist on Minnesota’s classic hot dish, packed with cheesy goodness, savory meat, and crispy Tater Tots. Imagine a creamy base made with condensed soup topped with a glorious layer of golden Tater Tots and melted cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is a breeze to whip up in just two simple steps!
To create this mouthwatering casserole, you likely already have the key ingredients stocked in your kitchen. Traditional hot dishes often include some vegetables like corn, but let’s face it, the star of the show is the Tater Tots! To top it off, we slather the whole thing with a generous portion of cheddar cheese, creating an irresistible cheesy delight.
Ingredients for Tater Tot Casserole
- Ground meat: For that hearty texture, go with ground beef, or choose ground turkey for a leaner option. Make sure to brown the meat well for the best flavor.
- Onion: Yellow or white onions are the best choices for this dish, though red onions will work too. Use a sharp knife to chop them to minimize tears. Check out some tips on how to chop onions without crying!
- Tater Tots: Stick to store-bought frozen Tater Tots. You can bake them directly from the freezer—no thawing needed!
- Soup: A can of condensed cream of mushroom soup gives this casserole its creamy base, mixing beautifully with the milk to create a luscious sauce.
- Milk: Milk is key for thinning out the condensed soup, helping to achieve that perfect creamy consistency. You can use any type of milk or even broth for a different flavor.
- Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese is the classic choice for melting over the top, giving that final delicious touch. For convenience, you can buy pre-grated cheese or grate your own.
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Meat
Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef along with the onions over medium heat until the meat is nicely browned. Don’t forget to drain the excess fat and season it generously with salt and pepper!
Step 2: Combine and Cook
Transfer the cooked meat and onions into a greased 2-quart baking dish. Cover the top evenly with a layer of Tater Tots all the way to the edges. In a bowl, combine the condensed soup and milk, whisking it well before pouring it over the Tater Tots.
Finally, sprinkle a generous amount of cheese on top. Bake uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is beautifully melted.
Recipe Variations
- Try Different Flavors: Get creative with your seasoning! Incorporate homemade taco seasoning into the beef for a tasty twist. Adding minced jalapeno gives it a nice kick, while green hatch chiles add a burst of flavor.
- Swap the Soup: If you’re not a fan of mushroom, use condensed cream of chicken soup for a wonderful variation that still offers a creamy texture.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Cheese lovers can mix things up! Use pepper jack for some heat, aged Gruyere for a unique taste, or a sweeter young Gouda. You can even blend different cheeses for an adventurous flavor.
- Add Veggies: Pack more nutrition into your meal by adding veggies! Green beans, steamed kale, spinach, or even some sautéed broccoli or cauliflower would work great in this casserole.
How to Store Tater Tot Casserole
Leftover Tater Tot casserole can be covered and stored in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave some individual portions for a quick meal!
Can You Freeze a Tater Tot Casserole?
This casserole freezes wonderfully! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly or store in airtight containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before heating again, and enjoy within three months for the best quality.
Tater Tot Casserole Tips
What Can You Serve with Tater Tot Casserole?
As our Tater Tot casserole is mainly meat and Tater Tots, any vegetable side dish would complement it beautifully. A crisp side salad would also be a refreshing addition. Warm dinner rolls on the side are perfect for those cozy, chilly evenings.
What Else Can I Make with Tater Tots?
Tater Tots aren’t just for side dishes! Use them in creative ways, like turning them into loaded Tater Tot nachos, breakfast casseroles, or other delightful dishes that showcase their crispy potato goodness.
