Introduction:
This cheesy tater tot casserole is the ultimate comfort food—a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Made with layers of creamy, cheesy goodness and golden, crispy tater tots, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also full of flavor. Serve it with a side salad for a balanced meal or enjoy it as a hearty main course.
Ingredients:
- Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For Topping:
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or additional cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley or diced tomatoes for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Beef:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, diced onion, and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess grease. Season with salt and pepper.
- Prepare the Base:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir in the cooked beef mixture and frozen vegetables (if using).
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread the beef and soup mixture evenly into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Add the Cheese Topping:
- Remove the casserole from the oven, sprinkle with additional shredded cheese, and return to the oven for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley or diced tomatoes for a burst of freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!
This tater tot casserole is a comforting classic that can be customized to your taste. Add bacon bits for extra flavor or swap the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken for a twist! Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.
