Tater Tot Casserole With Ground Beef Recipe

Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is a hearty, comforting dish that combines seasoned ground beef, a creamy sauce, and crispy tater tots all baked to golden perfection. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you need a filling, crowd-pleasing meal. The crispy tater tots on top are what truly make this dish special, offering a satisfying contrast to the savory beef and creamy filling underneath. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight meal or something to bring to a gathering, this tater tot casserole is sure to be a hit. Let’s get into the details and make this delicious comfort food!

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What is Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef?

Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is a layered casserole made with seasoned ground beef, vegetables, a creamy sauce (often using cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup), shredded cheese, and topped with a layer of crispy tater tots. It’s baked until the tots are golden and crunchy, while the inside remains creamy and flavorful. This classic dish is often referred to as a “hotdish” in some parts of the U.S., particularly in the Midwest, and has been a beloved family meal for generations.

Ingredients List for Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

Main Ingredients:

• Ground Beef (1 lb): Lean ground beef is preferred to avoid too much grease, but you can use regular ground beef and drain excess fat.
• Frozen Tater Tots (1 package, 32 oz): These form the crispy, crunchy topping.
• Onion (1 medium, diced): Adds a sweet, savory flavor to the beef mixture.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds extra depth to the flavor.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): Creates a creamy, flavorful sauce. You can also substitute with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup.
• Sour Cream (1 cup): Adds creaminess and a slight tang to the dish.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (2 cups): Melts into the casserole and gives it a rich, cheesy finish.
• Frozen Mixed Vegetables (1 cup): Adds texture and nutrition. You can use any vegetable mix you prefer, such as peas, carrots, corn, and green beans.
• Worcestershire Sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds a savory, umami flavor to the beef.
• Butter (1 tablespoon): For sautéing the onions and garlic.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): To season the beef and vegetables.
• Black Pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds mild heat and balance to the flavors.
• Paprika (½ teaspoon): For a bit of color and mild spice.
• Green Onions or Parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh pop of color and flavor when serving.

Optional Ingredients:

• Bacon (½ cup, cooked and crumbled): For added smokiness and richness.
• Jalapeños (¼ cup, diced): If you like a bit of spice.
• Cream of Chicken Soup (in place of mushroom): For a lighter flavor, use cream of chicken soup instead of cream of mushroom.
• Hot Sauce (a few dashes): For those who enjoy a little heat in their dishes.
• Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated): Sprinkle on top for an extra cheesy, crispy topping.

Substitutions and Variations

The beauty of this tater tot casserole is its versatility. Here are some popular substitutions and variations to fit your preferences:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the dish.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and add more vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or broccoli for a vegetarian-friendly casserole.
• Gluten-Free: Make sure to use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and tater tots to create a gluten-free version.
• Cheese Variations: Instead of cheddar, you can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend of cheeses for different flavor profiles.
• Extra Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to boost the nutrition and flavor.
• Tater Tot Variations: If you want a fun twist, try using sweet potato tater tots for a slightly sweet and healthier topping.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare a delicious tater tot casserole with ground beef. It’s easy, quick, and sure to be a hit at your dinner table!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the casserole bakes evenly and the tater tots get crispy.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until they are softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Next, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Season the Beef

Once the ground beef is cooked, stir in the Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and paprika. This will infuse the beef with rich flavor. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 4: Mix in Vegetables and Cream Sauce

Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until heated through. Add the can of cream of mushroom soup and sour cream to the beef and vegetables. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through, creating a creamy mixture.

Step 5: Layer the Casserole

Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish. Next, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.

Step 6: Add the Tater Tots

Evenly arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the top of the beef and cheese mixture. You can place them in rows or scatter them evenly, but make sure the entire surface is covered.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy on top. Halfway through the baking time, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots and continue baking.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for a fresh finish. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Cook Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ground beef, onions, and garlic in butter until browned, then drain any excess fat.
3. Season the beef with Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and paprika.
4. Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, and sour cream until well combined.
5. Spread the beef and vegetable mixture into a greased baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Arrange frozen tater tots on top in a single layer.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, adding more cheese halfway through, until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
8. Garnish with green onions or parsley and serve hot.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Tater Tots: Make sure to arrange the tater tots in a single layer on top. Overcrowding can prevent them from crisping up properly.
• Skipping the Drain on Ground Beef: Failing to drain the excess fat from the ground beef can result in a greasy casserole.
• Overcooking the Tater Tots: Keep an eye on the tater tots to prevent them from burning. You want them to be golden and crispy, not overdone.
• Not Letting the Casserole Cool: Allow the casserole to cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help the flavors meld and make it easier to serve clean slices.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Here are a few simple tips for serving your Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef:

• Serve with a Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the casserole.
• Add a Vegetable Side: Serve the casserole with a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots for added nutrition.
• Bread Rolls: Pair the casserole with soft dinner rolls or garlic bread to make the meal even more filling.

How to Serve Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

• Family Style: Place the casserole dish in the center of the table and let everyone serve themselves.
• Individual Portions: Use a large spoon or spatula to scoop portions onto plates. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of green onions or parsley for a pop of color.
• Toppings: Add additional toppings such as sour cream, extra shredded cheese, or crispy bacon bits for a customizable experience.

Presentation Ideas for Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef

If you want to take the presentation of your casserole up a notch, try these ideas:

• Serve in a Cast-Iron Skillet: Bake the casserole in a cast-iron skillet for a rustic, homestyle presentation.
• Garnish Generously: Top the casserole with chopped green onions, parsley, or crumbled bacon for added color and flavor.
• Cheese Drizzle: Drizzle melted cheese over the tater tots just before serving for extra cheesy goodness.

Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. Bake it fresh when you're ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Assemble it but do not bake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time.

Q: Can I freeze Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef?
A: Absolutely. Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Q: What vegetables can I add to this casserole?
A: You can add any vegetables you like! Frozen peas, carrots, corn, green beans, or even sautéed mushrooms would all work well in this casserole.

Conclusion

Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory beef, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all topped with golden, crispy tater tots. This family-friendly casserole is easy to make, versatile, and perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Whether you're serving it with a salad or as a stand-alone meal, it's sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Follow the recipe and tips above to create a delicious, hearty dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!

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