Tatertot casserole with beef is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Combining tender ground beef, creamy sauce, vegetables, and crispy tater tots, this casserole delivers a delightful mix of textures and flavors in every bite. Its simplicity and satisfying taste make it a favorite weeknight meal.
The beauty of this dish lies in its balance. The savory beef and seasoning pair perfectly with the crispy top layer of tater tots, while a creamy base keeps the casserole moist and flavorful. Preparing a tatertot casserole requires minimal effort, yet the result feels indulgent and restaurant-quality at home.
This casserole is versatile and allows for customization. You can add vegetables like corn, peas, or bell peppers, and adjust the seasoning to your preference. Whether you are cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this recipe guarantees delicious results that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients Needed
Here is a list of ingredients required to make tatertot casserole with beef, along with their approximate calorie counts:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound | 800 |
| Onion, chopped | 1 medium | 45 |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves | 8 |
| Cream of mushroom soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) | 120 |
| Sour cream | ½ cup | 120 |
| Cheddar cheese, shredded | 1 cup | 450 |
| Frozen corn | 1 cup | 120 |
| Salt | 1 tsp | 0 |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | 3 |
| Tater tots | 32 pieces | 640 |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | 120 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
- Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Sauté onions and garlic in the same skillet until fragrant and translucent. Add them to the cooked beef.
- Mix the creamy base by combining cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, corn, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl.
- Combine beef and sauce: Add the cooked beef mixture into the creamy base and mix well.
- Transfer to baking dish: Spread the beef and sauce mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Add tater tots on top: Arrange the tater tots in a single layer, covering the entire casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until tater tots are golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Cool slightly before serving to let the flavors set.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or mushrooms for more nutrients and color.
- Use different cheeses such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack for variation.
- Swap cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or broccoli soup for a different flavor.
- For a spicier casserole, add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of chili powder.
- Prepare in advance by assembling the casserole and refrigerating it for up to 24 hours before baking.
Nutritional Information
One serving of tatertot casserole with beef (assuming 6 servings) roughly contains:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 510 |
| Protein | 28 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 32 grams |
| Fat | 28 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Sodium | 550 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Serve this tatertot casserole hot from the oven with a side of fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. Leftovers can be refrigerated for 2-3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness. It pairs well with ketchup, hot sauce, or sour cream for added flavor.
Conclusion
Tatertot casserole with beef is a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Its combination of tender beef, creamy sauce, and crispy tater tots makes it a crowd-pleaser that is simple to prepare yet indulgent in taste.
With a few easy steps, you can create a hearty dish that delivers warmth and flavor in every bite. Whether you follow the classic recipe or customize it with your favorite ingredients, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
