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Tater Tot Casserole

A hearty and comforting dish made with ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and topped with crispy tater tots, perfect for busy nights or family gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 1 lb ground beef Use lean ground beef or swap with ground turkey for a lighter version.
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup The cream of mushroom soup gives richness - swap for cream of chicken if you prefer.
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas and carrots) Frozen mixed vegetables are optional - some cooks prefer only corn or peas.
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and the onion is softened.
  3. Add minced garlic in the last minute of cooking, then drain excess fat if needed. Season with salt and pepper.
Make the Sauce
  1. Combine condensed soup and milk directly in the skillet with the cooked beef.
  2. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and milk until combined. Mix in Worcestershire sauce and the frozen vegetables; heat through for 2-3 minutes.
Assemble the Casserole
  1. Layer the beef mixture into the prepared baking dish, evenly distributing it in the bottom of the dish.
  2. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the beef.
Bake
  1. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the tater tots are heated through and starting to brown.
  2. Remove from oven, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, and return to oven for 5 more minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Rest and Serve
  1. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  2. Cut into squares and serve warm, optionally garnished with chopped green onions or parsley.

Notes

For soggy tots, bake a few extra minutes uncovered before adding cheese. To make ahead, assemble in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. To freeze, assemble but do not bake, wrap tightly, and freeze up to 3 months.