Marilyn'S Tater Tot Casserole
A hearty comfort food casserole combining ground beef, creamy soups, and crispy Tater Tots, perfect for family dinners and satisfying hungry appetites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef and chopped onion until browned.
- Drain excess fat from the beef mixture.
- Add cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, and milk to the beef mixture; stir well.
- Place frozen Tater Tots in a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Pour the beef and soup mixture over the Tater Tots.
- Bake uncovered in a 325° to 350°F oven for about 1 hour until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture. If you want a lighter dish, substitute ground turkey for the beef. You can also use low-fat soups and milk to reduce calories. To elevate the dish, try adding shredded cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a delicious, cheesy finish. This tater tot casserole is reminiscent of classic American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with lemon pepper chicken casserole for a comforting dinner spread. For a fun twist, offer hot sauce or ketchup on the side for those who enjoy a little extra flavor. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven method helps maintain the crispy texture of the Tater Tots.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marilyn'S Tater Tot Casserole contains roughly 724 calories, with 21g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (43% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (43% of the Daily Value), and iron (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 781mg per serving (34% 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 a day in advance. Simply assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before placing it in the oven. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's still cold from the fridge.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of canned peas?
Absolutely! Fresh or frozen peas work perfectly in this recipe. You can also experiment with other vegetables, such as corn or chopped bell peppers, to add more color and nutrients. Just make sure to cook them slightly before adding to the casserole to ensure they are tender when served.
What can I serve with tater tot casserole?
This tater tot casserole pairs well with a light green salad or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with garlic bread for a comforting meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving alongside chicken recipes like caraway chicken for a delicious combination that satisfies everyone.
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).