Raw Ground Beef Casserole
A comforting layered casserole featuring ground beef, creamy soups, onions, and crispy Tater Tots, ideal for family dinners and hearty comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer ground beef on the bottom of a 9 x 11-inch or smaller casserole dish.
- Cut the onion into pieces and layer over the ground beef.
- Pour cream of chicken soup and cream of celery soup over the onions.
- Cover with Tater Tots.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or mushrooms to the onion layer. If ground beef isn't available, ground turkey or chicken can be used as substitutes. You can enhance the dish by mixing in some shredded cheese before baking. For a quicker version, pre-cooked ground beef saves time. Adding spices like paprika can also elevate the taste.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a comforting family dinner, offer a side of garlic bread or roasted potatoes. Explore more American recipes for additional side dish ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, covered, until hot. Make sure to stir occasionally for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Raw Ground Beef Casserole contains roughly 514 calories, with 12g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1699mg per serving (74% 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 frozen Tater Tots in this recipe?
Yes, frozen Tater Tots work perfectly in this casserole. Just layer them directly on top without thawing. They will cook through in the oven and become crispy, adding a delightful texture to the dish.
How can I make this casserole ahead of time?
To prepare this casserole in advance, assemble all the layers in the dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
To make this casserole healthier, consider using lean ground beef or ground turkey. You can also substitute the cream soups with homemade versions or low-fat alternatives. Adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers can increase the nutritional value and add color to the dish.
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).