Looking for a quick, satisfying meal the whole family will love? This Tater Tot Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Soup is the perfect comfort dish for busy weeknights. Combining savory ground meat, creamy soup, nutritious veggies, and crispy tater tots, it’s a fuss-free, all-in-one dish that delivers flavor in every bite. With minimal prep and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is great whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen.
Overview of the Recipe
This Tater Tot Casserole layers browned ground meat with a rich, creamy mixture of cream of mushroom soup and milk, adding in frozen vegetables for color and nutrients. It’s all topped with crispy, golden tater tots and melted cheese, creating a crunchy yet cheesy surface. The best part is how customizable it is—swap meats, add different vegetables, or tweak seasonings to suit your taste. In about 45 minutes, you’ll have a delicious casserole ready to serve your family.
History and Origin
The origins of tater tot casseroles can be traced to classic Midwestern American cuisine, where casseroles have long been a popular way to combine inexpensive, filling ingredients. Tater tots were first introduced in the 1950s by the Ore-Ida company as a way to use leftover potato scraps. Over time, these crunchy potato bites found their way into countless dishes, especially casseroles. Today, tater tot casseroles remain a beloved potluck dish, cherished for their versatility and ease of preparation.
Ingredients
- 32 oz frozen tater tots
- 1 lb ground beef, turkey, or plant-based ground meat
- 10.5 oz can of cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s properly heated by the time you finish assembling the casserole.
- Cook the Ground Meat
- In a large skillet, brown 1 lb of ground beef, turkey, or plant-based ground meat over medium heat.
- Stir occasionally, ensuring the meat breaks into small pieces.
- Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet to avoid a greasy dish.
- Prepare the Creamy Mixture
- To the cooked meat, add 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup and 1 cup of milk.
- Stir the mixture thoroughly to combine and create a smooth, creamy base.
- Add 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and corn) to the skillet and stir them into the mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Casserole
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a light coating of oil or non-stick spray.
- Pour the creamy meat and vegetable mixture into the baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Add the Tater Tots and Cheese
- Arrange the 32 oz of frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the meat and vegetable mixture.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tater tots.
- Bake the Casserole
- Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are crispy and golden brown on top, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to scoop out individual portions.
Serving Suggestions
This Tater Tot Casserole serves 6 people and makes a hearty meal on its own. For an extra punch of freshness, you can serve it alongside:
- A side salad with crisp lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes.
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up any leftover sauce.
- Steamed broccoli or green beans for added vegetables.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Since this casserole is rich and savory, a light and refreshing drink like iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water pairs beautifully with it. If you prefer a warm beverage, herbal tea or a mild broth-based soup can complement the flavors.
Variations of the Recipe
This dish is highly adaptable, and you can make the following changes to suit your preferences:
- Vegetable Variations:
- Swap the mixed vegetables with broccoli, green beans, or zucchini.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or onions for an extra savory twist.
- Meat Variations:
- Use ground turkey or chicken ham instead of beef for a lighter option.
- Opt for a plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
- Cheese Variations:
- Substitute the cheddar cheese with pepper jack, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Soup Options:
- Replace the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery for a different taste.
Health Benefits and Notes
- Nutrient-Rich: Adding mixed vegetables ensures you get a good serving of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Protein Boost: Using ground turkey or plant-based ground meat offers a leaner protein option.
- Customizable Calories: You can control the calorie content by choosing lower-fat dairy, skipping cheese, or using fewer tater tots.
- Gluten-Free Option: Ensure that the cream of mushroom soup and tater tots are labeled gluten-free if you need to accommodate dietary restrictions.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, just pop it into the preheated oven, though you may need to add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time.
2. Can I freeze Tater Tot Casserole?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole and freeze it before baking. When ready to cook, bake it directly from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for 40-45 minutes.
3. What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
Try cream of chicken, cream of celery, or homemade mushroom sauce if you want a change.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.
5. Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes, use non-dairy milk and a dairy-free shredded cheese alternative to make this dish dairy-free.
Conclusion
This Easy & Delicious Tater Tot Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Soup is a versatile, comforting meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving a hungry family on a weeknight or bringing a dish to a potluck, this casserole is guaranteed to be a hit. Its crispy tater tot topping, creamy filling, and cheesy goodness make it an irresistible favorite. With simple ingredients and customizable options, you can tailor the recipe to suit your dietary needs and taste preferences. Give it a try today, and enjoy a warm, hearty meal that everyone will love!