Buddie'S Burger And Tots Casserole
A hearty casserole combining seasoned ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, cheesy topping, and crispy Tater Tots, perfect for family dinners and comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger meat in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Spread the cooked meat evenly in the bottom of a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle dried onion flakes over the meat.
- Pour undiluted can of mushroom soup over the meat and onions.
- Cover the top with a layer of Tater Tots.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 1 hour.
- Sprinkle grated Cheddar cheese over the Tater Tots and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce with the hamburger. If you prefer a different type of cheese, Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can also work well. For a healthier option, substitute ground turkey for the hamburger. Using fresh onions instead of dried could enhance the dish, but be sure to sauté them first to soften their texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Buddie's Burger and Tots Casserole with a side of Tossed Broccoli Salad for a refreshing contrast. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of green onions on top can elevate the dish. This hearty meal is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks; pair it with crusty bread for a complete comfort food experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or cover the baking dish with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to three months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Buddie'S Burger And Tots Casserole contains roughly 164 calories, with 9g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 477mg per serving (21% 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 this casserole a day in advance. Assemble all the ingredients in the baking dish, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
What can I use instead of Tater Tots?
If you don't have Tater Tots, you can substitute with frozen hash browns or even homemade mashed potatoes for a creamier texture. Just ensure they are evenly spread on top for consistent cooking and browning.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can mix in frozen peas, corn, or even sautéed bell peppers with the hamburger for added nutrition and flavor. Just be mindful of the moisture content to avoid making the casserole too soggy.
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).