Description
A comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole layered with savory ground beef, creamy soup, melty cheese, and crispy golden tater tots—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
- Ground Beef: 1 pound (provides a hearty, savory base)
- Onion: 1 small, diced (adds flavor and texture)
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon (for seasoning the beef)
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: 1 can (10.5 oz) (creates a creamy, cohesive filling)
- Frozen Mixed Vegetables: 1 1/2 cups (adds color and nutrition)
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup (melty, savory richness)
- Frozen Tater Tots: 1 bag (about 32 oz) (crispy topping and starch)
- Salt and Pepper: To taste (enhances overall flavor)
- Olive Oil or Butter: 1 tablespoon (for greasing the dish)
Instructions
- Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with oil or butter.
- Combine Ingredients: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in garlic powder, salt, pepper, mixed vegetables, and cream of mushroom soup.
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Assemble the Dish: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the meat layer. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.
- Cook to Perfection: Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes until the tater tots are golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
- Finishing Touches: Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving for easier slicing.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm as a standalone dish or with a side salad.
Notes
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based crumbles.
- Use cream of chicken or cheddar soup for a different flavor base.
- Add a sprinkle of paprika or hot sauce for extra kick.
- Great make-ahead dish—assemble and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg