Beef 'N Tater Casserole
A hearty casserole combining seasoned ground beef, green beans, creamy tomato sauce, mashed potatoes, crispy onions, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet; drain excess fat.
- In a bowl, combine cooked green beans, tomato soup, water, salt, garlic, and pepper.
- Pour the beef mixture into a casserole dish and spread evenly.
- Mix the prepared mashed potatoes with half of the French fried onions.
- Spoon the potato mixture in a mound around the outer edge of the casserole, forming a ring.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese and remaining fried onions over the top.
- Bake for an additional 5 minutes until cheese melts and onions are crispy.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some sautéed onions or bell peppers with the ground beef. If you're out of frozen green beans, fresh or canned green beans can be used instead. You can also substitute the Cheddar cheese with your favorite cheese, such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella, for a different taste. For a heartier dish, add some diced potatoes alongside the beef.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a comforting twist, it also complements well with leftovers like Leftover Roast Beef Hash for breakfast or brunch options.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef 'N Tater Casserole contains roughly 702 calories, with 23g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (47% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), and potassium (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1366mg per serving (59% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute can work well in this casserole. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if using a different meat to ensure it's fully cooked. Each option will provide a unique flavor while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.
What can I add to make this dish more flavorful?
Consider adding herbs like thyme or oregano for an aromatic touch. A splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce can also enhance the flavors. For a richer taste, you might mix in some sautéed mushrooms or a bit of barbecue sauce for a smoky twist.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).