Save A festive and comforting casserole featuring crispy tater tots, savory ground beef, and creamy vegetables perfect for a quick holiday meal.
This cozy casserole quickly became a holiday staple in my family because it's so easy to prepare and always satisfies everyone around the table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef:
- 1 medium onion: finely chopped
- 1 cup (120 g) frozen peas and carrots:
- 1/2 cup (60 g) frozen corn:
- 1 can (10.5 oz/298 g) condensed cream of mushroom soup:
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk:
- 1 1/2 cups (170 g) shredded cheddar cheese:
- 1 (32 oz/900 g) bag frozen tater tots:
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder:
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme:
- 1/2 tsp salt:
- 1/4 tsp black pepper:
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley: (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 400℉ (200℃). Grease a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Cook Beef and Onion:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until beef is browned and onion is soft, about 6 8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Heat Vegetables:
- Stir in the peas, carrots, and corn. Cook for 2 minutes until warmed through.
- Add Sauce and Seasonings:
- Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Assemble Casserole:
- Spread the beef and vegetable mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup (115 g) of the cheddar cheese over the top.
- Add Tater Tots:
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake for 30 minutes, until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
- Add Remaining Cheese and Bake:
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup (55 g) of cheddar cheese over the tater tots and bake for another 5 minutes, until cheese is melted.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
Save Our family gathers every holiday around this hearty dish, making warm memories with each bite during the festive season.
Notes
For a festive touch use red bell peppers and green peas for extra Christmas color. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Add a pinch of smoked paprika for extra flavor. Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
Required Tools
Large skillet 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish Mixing spoon Measuring cups and spoons Oven
Nutritional Information
Calories 485 Total Fat 28 g Carbohydrates 36 g Protein 22 g
Save This casserole brings comfort and joy to any holiday meal making it a treasured recipe to keep on hand.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I ensure the tater tots stay crispy?
Arrange the tots in a single layer and bake uncovered to allow proper crisping. Adding the remaining cheese towards the end helps retain crunch while adding flavor.
- → Can I substitute the ground beef with other proteins?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter variation without compromising flavor or texture.
- → What vegetables complement this casserole best?
Frozen peas, carrots, and corn work well, providing sweetness and color. You can also add red bell peppers for festive tones.
- → How can I add extra flavor to the dish?
Sprinkling smoked paprika or adding dried thyme enhances the savory profile, while fresh parsley adds a bright finish.
- → What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain crispiness of the tater tots.