Ground Chuck Casserole
A hearty, flavorful casserole combining ground chuck, creamy mushroom soup, and crispy tater tots, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place ground chuck, chopped onion, and cream of mushroom soup in a 2-quart ungreased casserole dish. Mix well.
- Arrange frozen tater tots on top of the meat mixture.
- Bake at 350°F for 1-1/2 hours until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier dish, consider adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat mixture. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground chuck. Ensure that the cream of mushroom soup is well-mixed to enhance creaminess. This casserole can also be customized with different frozen vegetables based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
This Ground Chuck Casserole pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed green vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside a refreshing Pineapple-Tomato-Egg Salad to add some brightness to your plate.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ground Chuck Casserole contains roughly 486 calories, with 45g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (90% of the Daily Value) and iron (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium.
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 a day in advance. Simply mix the ingredients and cover the dish with plastic wrap. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake at 350°F for about 1 hour, or until heated through, adding extra time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh potatoes, you can slice or dice them and layer them on top of the meat mixture. Just be aware that fresh potatoes may require a longer baking time to ensure they are fully cooked and tender.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for vegetarian diets by substituting the ground chuck with a plant-based meat alternative or lentils. Use vegetarian cream of mushroom soup to maintain the creamy texture, and your casserole will be just as satisfying without the meat.
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).