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Yummy Fall Tater Tot Casserole!

  • Author: Chef Emy

Description

 

Yummy Fall Tater Tot Casserole is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for chilly autumn evenings. This hearty casserole combines the crispiness of tater tots with a savory mixture of ground meat, vegetables, and cheese, all baked together until golden and bubbly. It’s a versatile dish that allows for plenty of customization based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started, with suggestions for variations to make it your own.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef or turkey

  • 1 medium onion, chopped

  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced

  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup

  • 1/2 cup milk

  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (corn, peas, carrots)

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1 lb (about 4 cups) frozen tater tots

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • Optional seasonings: paprika, cumin, or chili powder for extra flavor

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

2. Cook the Meat

  • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the meat is browned and the onions are translucent. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you like. Drain any excess fat.

3. Mix the Filling

  • Add the condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk to the skillet with the meat. Stir to combine. Then, mix in the frozen vegetables. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and slightly thickened.

4. Assemble the Casserole

  • Spread the meat and vegetable mixture evenly at the bottom of the greased baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.

5. Bake

  • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.

6. Add More Cheese

  • Sprinkle the remaining cup of cheddar cheese over the tater tots and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve

 

  • Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is best enjoyed hot, straight from the oven.

Notes

Variations and Tips:

  • Protein: Feel free to substitute the ground meat with a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version.

  • Soup Variations: Instead of cream of mushroom, try cream of chicken or celery soup for a different flavor profile.

  • Vegetables: The frozen mixed vegetables can be replaced with any seasonal vegetables you prefer, such as diced sweet potatoes, squash, or Brussels sprouts for a fall twist.

  • Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese for the topping. A mix of mozzarella and cheddar or a sprinkle of Parmesan can add interesting flavors.

  • Crispiness Tip: For extra crispy tater tots, consider pre-baking the tots for about 10 minutes before adding them to the casserole. This step ensures they stay crispy on top.

 

Yummy Fall Tater Tot Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate, bringing together the flavors and textures of the season in one delightful dish. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or make it your own with variations, it’s sure to become a cherished addition to your fall recipe collection.

Find it online: https://exorecipes.com/yummy-fall-tater-tot-casserole/