Classic Tater Tot Casserole
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
15 mins
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Cook Time
45 mins
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Total Time
1 hr
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Servings
6
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Calories
606 kcal
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Course
Main Course, Dinner
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Cuisine
American
Classic Tater Tot Casserole
Description
Classic Tater Tot Casserole assembles a mix of lean ground beef browned with onion, combined with thawed mixed vegetables and condensed cream of mushroom soup mixed with milk and dried herbs. These components create a savory filling spread in a casserole dish, topped with a layer of shredded cheddar cheese. Frozen tater tots form a crispy golden crust when baked in the oven until the filling is bubbly and the topping is browned.
This dish offers a contrast between the creamy, flavorful filling and the crunchy texture of the tater tots. The layering ensures the casserole holds moisture beneath the crispy potato topping. It provides a satisfying and familiar comfort food experience with accessible ingredients.
The casserole fits well as a main dish for casual family meals. It can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking. Leftovers are suitable for refrigeration up to four days or can be frozen for up to four months, allowing for flexible meal planning.
Ingredients
- 28 to 30 ounces tater tots 1 bag, frozen
- 1 pound ground beef lean
- 1 medium yellow onion diced
- 2 cups mixed vegetables thawed, or fresh diced vegetables, frozen
- 10.5 ounces condensed cream of mushroom soup 1 can
- ⅓ cup milk
- ¼ teaspoon oregano dried
- ¼ teaspoon parsley dried
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- 2 cups cheddar cheese divided, shredded
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef and onion until no pink remains. Drain any fat.
- In a medium bowl, mix the thawed vegetables, soup, milk, seasonings, beef mixture, and ½ cup shredded cheese.
- Spread the beef mixture into a 3qt or 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Top with tater tots and bake for 40 to 50 minutes or until the sauce is bubbly and the tots are golden brown.
Notes
- Fresh vegetables like carrots and celery should be steamed or cooked until tender alongside the ground beef before assembling.
- Frozen vegetables require thawing prior to mixing to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
- Substitutions such as other condensed "cream of" soups, gravy, or tomato soup can alter the flavor and consistency.
- Use any suitable casserole dish; deeper dishes may need increased cooking time to ensure thorough heating.
- The casserole can be assembled in advance and refrigerated before baking, though chilled dishes will require extra baking time.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 4 months for later meals.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 606 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 606 | 30% |
| Carbohydrates | 52g | 17% |
| Protein | 34g | 68% |
| Fat | 31g | 48% |
| Saturated Fat | 13g | 65% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4g | 24% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 12g | 60% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | 50% |
| Cholesterol | 90mg | 30% |
| Sodium | 1326mg | 55% |
| Potassium | 939mg | 20% |
| Fiber | 6g | 24% |
| Sugar | 2g | 4% |
| Vitamin A | 3492IU | 70% |
| Vitamin C | 19mg | 21% |
| Calcium | 337mg | 34% |
| Iron | 4mg | 22% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.