Tater Tot Casserole

This Tater Tot Casserole is the epitome of comfort food – hearty, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. With layers of savory ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, crisp tater tots, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings. It’s a dish that always brings back fond memories and puts smiles on faces.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef (the leaner the better)
• 1/2 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 15 oz can green beans, drained
• 10.75 oz can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups frozen tater tots
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease an 8 or 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Set aside.
3. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
4. Add the diced onions to the skillet and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until translucent.
5. Stir in the minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, for an additional minute.
6. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the ground beef mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
8. Top the beef with condensed cream of mushroom soup, followed by drained green beans, and then shredded cheddar cheese. Ensure to season the green bean layer with salt and pepper.
9. Finally, arrange the frozen tater tots on top of the cheese layer.
10. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Serve immediately and enjoy the deliciousness!

FAQs:

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
   • Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef if you prefer a lighter option.
2. Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
   • Absolutely! You can use fresh green beans, blanched and sliced, for a fresher taste and texture.
3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking it straight from the refrigerator.
4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   • Yes, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack, to customize the flavor to your liking.
5. Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
   • Of course! You can add other vegetables like corn, peas, or diced bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
6. Can I freeze leftovers?
   • Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.
7. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
   • Yes, you can omit the ground beef and use extra vegetables or plant-based meat substitutes for a vegetarian version.
8. Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
   • Absolutely! Just use a larger baking dish and adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly.

Tips:

1. For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or onion powder to the ground beef while browning.
2. Ensure that the tater tots are arranged in a single layer on top of the casserole for even cooking and crispiness.
3. For a crunchy topping, broil the casserole for a few minutes after baking until the tater tots are extra crispy.
4. Serve the casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

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