Sunday Special Casserole
A hearty casserole combining savory ground beef, creamy soup, and crispy Tater Tots, perfect for comforting family dinners and easy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spread raw ground beef in the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch baking pan. Sprinkle chopped onion over the meat.
- Spread undiluted cream of celery soup on top of the onions.
- Top the soup with frozen Tater Tots.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour, uncovered.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce with the ground beef. You can substitute the cream of celery soup with cream of mushroom soup if desired. For a healthier twist, you might use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness. It pairs beautifully with a yogurt-based dressing for the salad. For a comforting experience, consider serving it alongside biscuits or a warm loaf of bread to soak up the delicious flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or until heated through. For a crispier top, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sunday Special Casserole contains roughly 199 calories, with 8g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 571mg per serving (25% 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 this casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble all the ingredients in the baking pan, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if it's cold from the fridge.
What can I substitute for Tater Tots?
If you don't have Tater Tots, you can use frozen hash browns or even thinly sliced potatoes. For a lower-carb option, consider using cauliflower tots or a layer of sliced zucchini on top instead.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Just allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F until heated through.
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).