Pin It A comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole layered with savory ground beef, creamy sauce, cheese, and crispy tater tots—perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
This casserole has been a staple in my family's meals, always bringing smiles to the table on hectic evenings.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (85% lean recommended)
- Onion: 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Frozen peas and carrots: 1 cup (150 g)
- Condensed cream of mushroom soup: 1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g)
- Whole milk: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 2 cups (200 g), divided
- Worcestershire sauce: 1/2 tsp
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste
- Frozen tater tots: 1 bag (32 oz / 900 g)
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Cook beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5 7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté aromatics:
- Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2 3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add vegetables:
- Stir in frozen peas and carrots. Cook for 2 more minutes.
- Mix sauce:
- Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, 1 cup (100 g) cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Assemble casserole:
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Add cheese layer:
- Sprinkle 1/2 cup (50 g) cheddar cheese over the beef layer.
- Top with tater tots:
- Arrange frozen tater tots in a single, even layer on top.
- Bake first:
- Bake uncovered for 35 minutes.
- Add remaining cheese:
- Remove from oven, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup (50 g) cheddar cheese over the tater tots, and bake for another 10 minutes, until cheese is melted and tots are golden brown.
- Rest:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Pin It Gathering around this casserole has created many cherished family moments and comfort food memories.
Preparation Details
Preparation takes about 15 minutes, with a total cooking time of 45 minutes to one hour.
Allergen Information
Contains milk, wheat (in soup and possibly tater tots), soy (possible in soup), and cheese. Always check labels if allergies are a concern.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad for a complete meal and an extra pop of freshness.
Pin It This casserole is both delicious and satisfying, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Questions & Answers
- → Can I substitute ground turkey for beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a lighter alternative while maintaining richness and texture.
- → What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
Substitute with cream of chicken soup or make a homemade creamy sauce for a different flavor profile.
- → How do I get the tater tots crispy on top?
Baking uncovered towards the end allows tots to crisp up nicely. Adding cheese after initial baking enhances browning.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate before baking. Bake extra 5-10 minutes if baking chilled.
- → Are there suggestions for additional vegetables?
Frozen peas and carrots are classic, but adding corn or green beans can offer extra texture and flavor.