Description
Tasty Tater Tot Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish featuring a savory ground beef and vegetable mixture topped with crispy tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. This classic casserole is perfect for a family dinner, combining rich flavors with a satisfying crunchy topping.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 to 2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 medium white onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can corn kernels, drained
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can green beans, drained
- 32 ounces frozen tater tots
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef and Onions: In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, cook 1 1/2 to 2 pounds ground beef with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Add the diced white onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Create the Roux: Add 2 tablespoons butter to the saucepan and allow it to fully melt. Stir in 1/2 cup all-purpose flour until well combined and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add Liquids and Vegetables: Gradually pour in 1 cup beef broth, 1/2 cup milk, and 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the drained corn and green beans, stirring occasionally, and cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the meat and vegetable mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Arrange the 32 ounces of frozen tater tots in a single layer over the top, then sprinkle evenly with 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake the Casserole: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the tater tots are golden and crispy. Serve hot for best flavor.
Notes
- For a crispier topping, broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Use fresh vegetables in place of canned if preferred, adjusting cooking time to soften them before baking.
- If you like extra cheese, feel free to add more on top before baking or sprinkle some after baking for extra richness.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated; bake it right from the fridge adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
