Debbie'S Beef N' Potato Casserole
Hearty beef and broccoli casserole with crispy Tater Tots and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners and satisfying cravings with savory flavors and crispy textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place Tater Tots on the bottom and sides of an 8 x 12-inch casserole dish. Bake uncovered at 400°F for 10 minutes.
- Brown the ground beef and drain excess fat.
- Mix the cooked beef, thawed broccoli, and half of the fried onion rings. Spread this mixture over the partially baked Tater Tots.
- Combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and 3/4 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese to make the sauce.
- Pour the soup mixture over the beef and vegetable layer.
- Bake uncovered at 400°F for 20 minutes.
- Top with the remaining shredded Cheddar cheese and fried onion rings.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until cheese is melted and topping is crispy.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider seasoning the ground beef with garlic powder or onion powder. You can substitute fresh broccoli for frozen if preferred, but make sure to blanch it first. If you want a spicier kick, try adding a dash of hot sauce to the soup mixture. This casserole is a great way to use leftover cooked beef if you have any from other beef recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but for a complete meal, serve it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. It pairs beautifully with Skillet Okra And Rice as a side. You can also offer some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will help maintain the crispiness of the Tater Tots.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Debbie'S Beef N' Potato Casserole contains roughly 890 calories, with 31g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (62% of the Daily Value), calcium (55% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1254mg per serving (55% 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 up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can use cream of chicken soup or even a homemade white sauce. For a healthier option, consider using a low-fat or dairy-free cream soup alternative.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the baking instructions as usual.
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).