Description
This classic Tater Tot Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish featuring lean ground beef, savory green beans, creamy mushroom soup, and crispy golden tater tots baked to perfection. Ideal for a family dinner, it combines simple ingredients into a flavorful and satisfying casserole everyone will love.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Ground Beef Mixture
- 1 lb lean ground beef (the leaner the better)
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Casserole Layers
- 15 oz can green beans, drained
- 10.75 oz can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups frozen tater tots
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease an 8 or 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the lean ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole lighter.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the diced onions to the skillet and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until they become translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute while stirring frequently to release its aroma.
- Add Seasoning: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and season the mixture with salt and pepper according to your taste. Mix well.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the cooked beef mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Spread the condensed cream of mushroom soup evenly over the beef, followed by a layer of drained green beans (season the green beans lightly with salt and pepper). Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Top with Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer covering the entire casserole surface to ensure even baking and crispy topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese has fully melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving immediately for a warm, comforting meal.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and make this dish healthier.
- Drain excess fat after browning the beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
- Season the green beans with a little salt and pepper before layering for enhanced flavor.
- You can substitute green beans with other vegetables like corn or peas if preferred.
- For a vegetarian version, replace beef with cooked lentils or meat substitute and use vegetarian mushroom soup.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.
