How to Make Tater Tot Casserole

Ingredients for Ultimate Tater Tot Casserole

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk
• 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup (100 g) frozen peas and carrots
• 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (optional)

How to Make Ultimate Tater Tot Casserole

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the casserole will cook evenly and the tater tots will become perfectly crispy.
2. Prepare the Beef Mixture:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Add Onion and Garlic:
   Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
4. Create the Sauce:
   Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Mix until well combined. This will form a creamy base for the casserole. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using, add the dried thyme and rosemary for additional flavor.
5. Combine with Vegetables:
   Add the frozen peas and carrots to the beef mixture. Stir until the vegetables are evenly distributed. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, just to ensure the vegetables are warmed through.
6. Assemble the Casserole:
   Transfer the beef mixture to a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. Add Tater Tots:
   Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the beef mixture. Try to cover the entire surface of the casserole for even cooking.
8. Bake:
   Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy. The casserole is ready when the tater tots are crispy and the sauce is bubbly.
9. Add Cheese (Optional):
   If you like your casserole extra cheesy, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the tater tots during the last 10 minutes of baking. Continue baking until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Cool and Serve:
    Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the sauce to set a bit and make serving easier.

About the Main Ingredients

• Ground Beef: The primary protein in this casserole, ground beef is a versatile ingredient that provides a rich, meaty flavor. It’s a staple in many casseroles due to its flavor and texture.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: This canned soup acts as a base for the casserole’s creamy sauce. It adds a savory, umami flavor and helps to bind the ingredients together.
• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese adds a deliciously cheesy flavor and helps to create a gooey topping. It can be omitted or replaced with other types of cheese if desired.
• Frozen Tater Tots: The key to the crispy topping of the casserole, frozen tater tots are a convenient and quick option. They add a delightful crunch and are easy to prepare.
• Peas and Carrots: These frozen vegetables add color, nutrition, and a touch of sweetness to the casserole. They’re a great way to include some veggies in the dish without much extra prep work.

This Tater Tot Casserole is not only easy to make but also customizable. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, swap out the cheese, or even use different types of soup to suit your tastes. Enjoy this classic comfort food as a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering.