Tater Tot Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Soup is the epitome of comfort food. Imagine a bubbling dish filled with crispy, golden tater tots, creamy mushroom soup, and savory ground beef that dances together in perfect harmony. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone gathering around the table, eagerly anticipating that first bite.
This dish evokes memories of cozy family gatherings and late-night snack sessions, where each spoonful brings warmth and nostalgia. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a casual get-together, Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that promises to deliver an explosion of flavor and heartwarming satisfaction.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Tater Tot Casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The combination of crispy tater tots with creamy mushroom soup creates an irresistible flavor profile.
- Visually, it’s a feast for the eyes with its golden topping and colorful layers.
- It’s versatile enough for family dinners or potlucks, ensuring you’ll impress your guests every time.
Ingredients for Tater Tot Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option; it provides a hearty base for your casserole.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: This star ingredient adds creaminess and flavor; opt for low-sodium varieties if you prefer less salt.
- Tater Tots: Frozen tater tots are perfect for this recipe; their crispiness will elevate the entire dish.
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar cheese melts beautifully on top; feel free to mix in other varieties if you like.
- Onion: Diced onion adds sweetness and depth; sautéing it beforehand enhances its flavor.
- Seasonings: A mix of salt, pepper, and garlic powder will bring out all the flavors in your casserole.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Tater Tot Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While you’re at it, grab a trusty baking dish (around 9×13 inches) and spray it with nonstick cooking spray to ensure nothing sticks.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat – unless you want a swimming pool of grease in your casserole (not recommended).
Step 3: Mix It All Together
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well coated in that creamy goodness.
Step 4: Layer It Up
Spread the beef mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish. Now comes the fun part – layer those frozen tater tots on top! You can arrange them neatly or just throw them on like confetti; I won’t judge.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over those tater tots. The more cheese, the better! Trust me; you’ll thank me later when it bubbles and turns golden brown.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop that glorious creation into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the tater tots are crispy and golden brown. Once done, allow it to cool slightly before serving.
Transfer to plates and serve while warm. Your taste buds will rejoice as they dive into this creamy, crunchy masterpiece!
And there you have it! Your very own Tater Tot Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Soup is ready to steal the show at any dinner table or potluck gathering! Bonus points if you can resist devouring it all in one sitting!
You Must Know
- Tater Tot Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Soup is not just a dish; it’s a culinary hug!
- It’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy nights when you need comfort food that feels like home.
- Plus, it’s customizable to fit any palate.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning your ground beef in a skillet while preheating your oven. As the beef cooks, mix the cream of mushroom soup with your seasoning. Layer the tater tots on top before baking to golden perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken or cheddar cheese soup if you’re feeling adventurous. Toss in some veggies like peas or bell peppers for an extra crunch and color!
Storing & Reheating
To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring that those tater tots stay crispy!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, season your meat generously before cooking.
- Avoid overcrowding your pan when browning the beef to achieve that lovely caramelization.
- Finally, don’t skip letting it cool slightly before serving—this prevents anyone from burning their tongue!
Sometimes I think my Tater Tot Casserole should win an award—every time I bring it to family gatherings, it disappears faster than my dog when I mention “walk.”
FAQs :
What ingredients are needed for Tater Tot Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Soup?
To prepare Tater Tot Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Soup, gather key ingredients such as frozen tater tots, ground beef or turkey, cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheese, and your choice of vegetables like peas or corn. Season with salt and pepper for added flavor. You can customize the recipe by adding spices or different types of cheese to suit your taste. This dish offers a hearty blend of textures and flavors that your family will love.
How long does it take to cook Tater Tot Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Soup?
Cooking Tater Tot Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Soup typically takes about 45 minutes. First, you need to preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Assemble the casserole by layering the ingredients in a baking dish, then bake it uncovered for 30-35 minutes until the tater tots are golden brown. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Trust me, this time flies when you smell the delicious aroma filling your kitchen!
Can I make Tater Tot Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Tater Tot Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Soup ahead of time! To do this, assemble all ingredients in a baking dish but do not bake it yet. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. This is great for meal prep or planning ahead for busy weeknights. Just remember to add an extra few minutes to the cooking time if you are baking it straight from the refrigerator.
Is Tater Tot Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Soup freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Tater Tot Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Soup freezes well and can be stored for up to three months. Just make sure to let the casserole cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This makes for an easy meal solution on those hectic days when cooking feels overwhelming!
Conclusion for Tater Tot Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Soup :
Tater Tot Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Soup is a comforting and easy dish perfect for any family dinner. With simple ingredients like tater tots, ground meat, and creamy soup, this recipe ensures everyone will leave the table satisfied. You can customize it based on what you have at home or your family’s preferences. Whether you prepare it fresh or freeze leftovers, this casserole is sure to be a hit! Enjoy this delightful meal any night of the week!
Tater Tot Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Soup
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Tater Tot Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Soup is a creamy, satisfying dish topped with crispy tater tots, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (low-sodium preferred)
- 32 oz frozen tater tots
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add ground beef and diced onion. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked beef and onion with cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Layer frozen tater tots on top as desired.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the tater tots.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until tater tots are crispy and golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of casserole (approx. 210g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: For added flavor, incorporate vegetables like peas or bell peppers into the meat mixture. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for up to three months.
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