Ground Beef And Tater Casserole
A hearty casserole combining ground beef, green beans, and cheesy mashed potatoes, perfect for a comforting family dinner with rich flavors and crispy onion topping.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in a skillet; drain.
- Combine beef, green beans, tomato soup, water, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Mix mashed potatoes with half of the French fried onions.
- Spoon the potato mixture in a mounded ring around the top outer edge of the casserole.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.
- Top the potatoes with shredded Cheddar cheese and the remaining French fried onions.
- Bake for an additional 5 minutes until cheese is melted and onions are crispy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. If you're short on time, consider using store-bought mashed potatoes. You can also mix in some grated carrots or corn for added nutrition and flavor. If you like a bit of spice, a dash of hot sauce can elevate the dish. This casserole is also great for meal prepping!
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with the fresh flavors of a light vinaigrette or your favorite dipping sauce. This dish is perfect for potlucks and gatherings, as it is sure to please a crowd. For a comforting twist, consider serving it alongside Beef Stew With Cheddar Dumplings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the microwave or oven until heated through. If using the oven, cover with foil to prevent the top from over-browning. For best results, reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ground Beef And Tater Casserole contains roughly 1045 calories, with 36g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (72% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (64% of the Daily Value), and calcium (41% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1952mg per serving (85% 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?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, remove the cover and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This will help it cook evenly.
What can I substitute for the green beans?
If green beans aren't your favorite, you can easily swap them for other vegetables like frozen peas, corn, or mixed vegetables. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if using fresh vegetables, as they may require less time to cook than frozen ones.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, or bake directly from frozen, adding extra time to ensure it's heated through.
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).