Stuffing Casserole
A hearty casserole combining savory hamburger, flavorful stuffing, crispy Tater Tots, and creamy soups for a comforting family meal. Perfect for weeknights, it offers a delicious mix of textures and flavors that satisfy both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place raw hamburger in the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Cover the hamburger with a layer of stuffing mix (not prepared).
- Spread chopped onion over the stuffing.
- Pour the cans of soup (celery, onion, chicken, or mushroom) over the stuffing and onion layers.
- Pour milk evenly over the soups.
- Top with frozen Tater Tots and cover the pan with foil.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
- Remove the foil during the last 15 minutes to brown the Tater Tots.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding spices like garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the hamburger before baking. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian dish, use plant-based crumbles and vegetable broth instead of milk. The stuffing mix can be replaced with cornbread mix for a different texture.
Serving Suggestions
This stuffing casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve with Barbecued Beans And Bacon. You can also garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added freshness and color.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place a portion in the microwave or oven until heated through. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent drying out, then remove the foil for the last few minutes to restore the crispiness of the Tater Tots.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffing Casserole contains roughly 388 calories, with 14g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 732mg per serving (32% 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 up to a day in advance. Assemble all the layers in the pan, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add an extra 15-20 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of Tater Tots?
If you don't have Tater Tots, you can use frozen hash browns or even homemade potato wedges. Just ensure they are crispy before serving to maintain texture. Alternatively, top with shredded cheese for a cheesy, gooey finish.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the hamburger with plant-based meat alternatives or cooked lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of milk and opt for vegetarian soups. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegetarian version of this comforting casserole.
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).