Durkee 15 Minute Casserole
A quick and comforting casserole combining crispy Tater Tots, seasoned ground beef, broccoli, and cheesy topping, perfect for a family-friendly dinner in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line the bottom of an 8 x 12-inch pan with Tater Tots.
- Bake, uncovered, at 400°F for 10 minutes.
- While Tater Tots are baking, brown the ground beef in large chunks.
- Once browned, place beef, half of the Durkee French fried onions, thawed broccoli, and chopped tomato in the Tater Tot shell.
- In a separate bowl, combine cream of celery soup, milk, half of the shredded Cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Pour the soup mixture over the beef and vegetable layer.
- Cover the pan and bake at 400°F for 20 minutes.
- Remove from oven, top with remaining onions and cheese.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding some spices like paprika or onion powder to the beef as it cooks. If you're looking for a lighter version, you can substitute the cream of celery soup with a low-fat soup option. Additionally, using fresh vegetables instead of frozen broccoli can add a nice crunch and freshness to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread or dinner rolls for a heartier dinner. For a fun twist, consider topping it with some hot sauce or serving it with sour cream on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. 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 Durkee 15 Minute Casserole contains roughly 675 calories, with 26g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (64% of the Daily Value), protein (52% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (43% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1017mg per serving (44% 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 cheese?
Absolutely! While Cheddar cheese adds great flavor, you can substitute it with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a cheese blend for a different taste. Just ensure the cheese melts well for that gooey texture.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just layer all the ingredients in the pan and cover it tightly with foil. When ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from the refrigerator.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Certainly! To make a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or lentils. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
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).