Description
This classic Tater Tot Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for family dinners. Ground beef, mixed vegetables, and a creamy mushroom sauce are baked beneath a crispy, golden layer of tater tots, making for an easy and satisfying meal everyone will love.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables, thawed (or fresh diced vegetables)
Other Ingredients
- 1 (28 to 30 ounce) bag frozen tater tots
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ⅓ cup milk
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook the Beef and Onion: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion until no pink remains, ensuring the beef is fully cooked. Drain off any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the thawed mixed vegetables, condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, dried oregano, dried parsley, salt, pepper, the beef and onion mixture, and ½ cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well to integrate all components.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the beef and vegetable mixture evenly into a 3-quart or 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mixture.
- Add Tater Tots and Bake: Place the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese-covered beef mixture. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 50 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and the tater tots turn golden brown and crispy.
Notes
- Make sure to drain excess fat after browning the beef to prevent a greasy casserole.
- You can substitute mixed vegetables with your favorite fresh or frozen vegetables.
- For a creamier version, add a bit more milk or cheese.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven for best texture.
- Feel free to add spices such as garlic powder or paprika to enhance flavor.
