This tater tot casserole with ground beef is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, combining savory ground beef, creamy soup, tender green beans, and a cheesy topping, all crowned with crispy golden tater tots. This simple, hearty dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that comes together with minimal fuss, making it a staple for any home cook.
Why You’ll Love This Tater Tot Casserole
- Quick Weeknight Dinner: This recipe takes less than an hour from start to finish.
- Pantry Staple Ingredients: You likely have most items on hand already.
- Customizable Flavors: Easily adapt it with your family’s favorite vegetables or cheeses.
- Ultimate Comfort Food: Warm, cheesy, and satisfying any time of year.
- Kid and Adult Approved: Everyone at the table will ask for seconds!
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious tater tot casserole with ground beef. The combination of savory beef, creamy soup, and crispy tots creates a harmonious and satisfying meal that’s hard to resist. Understanding the nutritional impact of your ingredients, even after cooking, can help you make informed choices. For more on the benefits of cooking with leaner ground beef, consider this information.
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 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
Notes & Substitutions
Using lean ground beef helps reduce excess grease, creating a cleaner casserole. If you prefer, substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery for a different flavor profile. Feel free to use Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend in place of cheddar. For added nutrition, mix in other vegetables like corn, peas, or mixed vegetables. You can also swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to lighten the dish.
Equipment
Having the right tools makes preparing your tater tot casserole with ground beef a breeze.
- 8 or 9-inch baking dish: A standard size for this recipe.
- Large skillet: Essential for browning the meat.
- Garlic press or mincer: Speeds up garlic prep.
- Cheese grater: For freshly shredded cheese.
- Cooking spray: For easy dish preparation.
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create your perfect tater tot casserole with ground beef. This simple process ensures a delicious and satisfying meal every time.
Preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures even cooking from the start.
Lightly grease an 8 or 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. Set it aside for later use.
Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once fully browned, drain any excess fat thoroughly. This step is crucial for flavor and texture.
Add the diced onions to the skillet with the beef. Sauté them for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent and tender.
Stir in the minced garlic. Cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, then season the beef and onion mixture generously with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well to distribute the seasonings.
Transfer the seasoned ground beef mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom, creating a solid base for your casserole.
Top the beef layer with the condensed cream of mushroom soup, spreading it gently. Next, add the drained green beans, distributing them evenly over the soup. Season the green bean layer with a pinch of salt and pepper. Follow this with the shredded cheddar cheese, creating a generous, even layer.
Finally, arrange the frozen tater tots in a single, even layer over the cheese. Ensure they are spread out for maximum crispiness.
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve your hot tater tot casserole with ground beef immediately and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success & Troubleshooting
Always brown your ground beef thoroughly before adding other ingredients. This develops deep flavor and prevents a watery casserole. Season every layer individually, including the green beans, to ensure a well-balanced taste throughout. To avoid soggy tater tots, ensure your beef is well-drained and the tots are arranged in a single, even layer, allowing them to crisp up properly in the oven. If your casserole seems watery, it’s often due to un-drained beef or vegetables; ensure everything is properly strained. For meal prep, assemble the casserole a day ahead and bake when ready. Adjust baking time if using a different size pan; a larger pan might cook faster.
Serving Suggestions, Storage, and Variations
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple, fresh green salad. The crisp greens offer a lovely contrast to the rich flavors. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of your favorite hot sauce makes a great addition. Originating in the Midwest, this dish is a quintessential comfort food that has evolved into a beloved classic across the United States. Explore the cultural significance of hotdish and tater tot casseroles to understand its enduring appeal.
Storage & Reheating
Allow your tater tot casserole with ground beef to cool completely before storing it. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave for quicker individual servings.
Flavor Variations
Experiment with your next tater tot casserole with ground beef! Swap cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken soup. Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños to the beef mixture for extra color and a slight kick. Mix in spices like paprika, chili powder, or a pinch of cayenne for a different flavor profile. Try using different cheese blends, such as a sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack mix. For an even richer taste, sprinkle in some crispy bacon bits before baking.
Nutrition Information
This nutrition information for tater tot casserole with ground beef provides approximate values per serving. Keep in mind that exact figures can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used. This dish offers a good source of protein and essential vitamins, making it a wholesome family meal.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 30g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Carbs | 30g |
| Cholesterol | 80mg |
| Sodium | 850mg |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 4g |
| Vitamin C | 10% DV |
| Iron | 20% DV |
| Calcium | 25% DV |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimates and will vary based on specific ingredients and cooking methods.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this casserole ahead? Yes, you can assemble the entire tater tot casserole with ground beef up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
- What other vegetables can I use? Feel free to add corn, peas, diced carrots, or even a can of mixed vegetables. Just make sure to drain them well before adding to the casserole.
- How do I prevent soggy tater tots? Ensure your ground beef is thoroughly drained of fat. Arrange the tater tots in a single, even layer on top to allow them to crisp up properly during baking.
- Can I freeze tater tot casserole? Yes, this casserole freezes beautifully! Cool it completely, then wrap it tightly in foil and plastic wrap, or portion into freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months.
- Is this recipe spicy or mild? This recipe is generally mild, making it family-friendly. You can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you prefer more heat.
Conclusion
This tater tot casserole with ground beef truly delivers on flavor and simplicity. It’s a fantastic solution for busy parents and beginner cooks looking for a hearty, satisfying meal that everyone will adore. With its creamy, cheesy layers and crispy tater tot topping, it’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Give this easy recipe a try tonight and discover your new favorite comfort food! We’d love to hear how it turns out.