Bob'S Easy Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole featuring ground beef, creamy soup, and crispy Tater Tots, perfect for family dinners and easy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crumble the ground beef into a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Chop the small onion very fine.
- Pour the undiluted cream of celery soup over the ground beef and onion.
- Cover the mixture with a layer of Tater Tots.
- Bake in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce to the ground beef. You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option or use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of celery if preferred. To make it vegetarian, substitute the beef with a mix of beans and lentils, and use a plant-based cream soup. Experiment with different cheeses on top for added richness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the flavors. It pairs beautifully with Aunt Pearl'S Meatballs for a hearty meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or a light soup like Mushroom Velvet Soup to complement the richness of the casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bob'S Easy Casserole contains roughly 482 calories, with 28g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (56% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 791mg per serving (34% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you're ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of Tater Tots?
If Tater Tots are not available, you can use frozen hash browns or even leftover mashed potatoes spread evenly on top. For a healthier option, try thinly sliced sweet potatoes or zucchini slices for a unique twist on the classic casserole topping.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make this casserole gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free cream of celery soup and check that your Tater Tots are also gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free options, making it easy to enjoy this comforting dish without gluten.
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).