Easy Meat And Tater Casserole
A hearty casserole combining crispy Tater Tots, seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line the bottom and sides of an 11 x 13-inch baking dish with Tater Tots.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
- Fry and drain the ground beef, then layer it onto the Tater Tots.
- Add the thawed broccoli, diced tomatoes, and half of the French fried onions on top of the beef layer.
- In a bowl, mix together the cream of celery soup, milk, black pepper, garlic powder, and 1/2 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Pour this mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the dish.
- Bake for 40 minutes at 350°F (175°C) or until the casserole is not soupy.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle with remaining onions and shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding some sautéed onions and bell peppers to the ground beef. If you're short on time, frozen broccoli can be replaced with fresh or canned options. For a lighter version, you could use ground turkey instead of beef. Adjust the cheese type for different flavors, like Pepper Jack for a spicy kick. This dish is perfect for a family gathering or a cozy night in.
Serving Suggestions
This Easy Meat And Tater Casserole pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed green beans for a complete meal. For a heartier accompaniment, consider serving crusty bread or garlic bread. It also works well as a potluck dish, where it can be a crowd-pleaser just like Cold Day Chili. Top with fresh herbs for added freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Meat And Tater Casserole contains roughly 756 calories, with 32g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (65% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (60% of the Daily Value), and iron (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 806mg per serving (35% 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! You can substitute Cheddar with any cheese you prefer, such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a blend. Each will give a unique flavor to the casserole, so feel free to experiment based on your taste.
Is there a vegetarian option for this casserole?
Yes, you can make this casserole vegetarian by using a plant-based ground meat substitute, and swapping out the cream of celery soup for a vegetarian version. Add more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for added texture and flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil. If you choose to freeze it, allow it to cool completely before wrapping and storing for up to 3 months.
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).