Molly'S Tater Tot Casserole
A cheesy, hearty casserole with Tater Tots, ground beef, and creamy sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Drain the grease from the beef mixture.
- Place half of the Tater Tots in the bottom of a greased baking pan.
- Mix the beef mixture, cream of celery soup, Cheez Whiz, and sour cream together.
- Spread this mixture on top of the Tater Tots in the pan.
- Cover the mixture with the remaining Tater Tots.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake at 375°F for 35 to 40 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding frozen mixed vegetables or swapping the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of celery for a different flavor profile. To add some spice, try incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. This dish is reminiscent of classic American recipes, making it a comforting family favorite.
Serving Suggestions
This Tater Tot Casserole is hearty enough to be a meal on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner. For a fun twist, serve alongside a dipping sauce like ranch or barbecue. Consider complementing it with garlic bread for a complete comfort food experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes or bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Be sure to cover the dish with foil to prevent it from drying out during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Molly'S Tater Tot Casserole contains roughly 384 calories, with 15g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (30% of the Daily Value) and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 592mg per serving (26% 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 assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
Can I use frozen Tater Tots?
Absolutely! Frozen Tater Tots are perfect for this recipe and save you time. There's no need to thaw them before using; simply layer them directly from the freezer onto the casserole.
What can I substitute for Cheez Whiz?
If you prefer a different cheese flavor, you can substitute Cheez Whiz with a combination of shredded cheddar and cream cheese. This will give you a creamy texture and rich flavor while still keeping the dish delicious.
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).