Tater Tot Casserole No. 2(Main Dish)
A hearty casserole combining seasoned ground beef, creamy soups, and crispy Tater Tots, topped with melted cheese for a comforting and savory family favorite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef, chopped onion, and chopped celery until the meat is cooked and vegetables are tender.
- Drain excess fat and stir in the cans of cream of chicken and cream of celery soups.
- Spread a layer of frozen Tater Tots evenly in the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish.
- Pour the meat and soup mixture over the Tater Tots.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
- During the last 15 minutes of baking, sprinkle shredded cheese on top and allow it to melt.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture. You can substitute ground turkey for a lighter option or use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of celery. Adjust the vegetables by adding bell peppers or corn for added texture and flavor. If you prefer a spicier dish, mix in jalapeños or hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Broccoli-Rice Cheese Bake for a comforting dinner. Consider offering a dollop of sour cream or salsa on the side for added flavor. This dish is great for potlucks and family gatherings as it feeds a crowd.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Tater Tot Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tater Tot Casserole No. 2(Main Dish) contains roughly 281 calories, with 12g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1146mg per serving (50% 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. Assemble the ingredients as directed, then cover and refrigerate before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of canned soup?
Absolutely! You can make a homemade sauce using chicken or vegetable broth, cream, and seasonings instead of canned soups. Sauté fresh vegetables like mushrooms and green beans to use in the mixture for a fresher taste.
Is this recipe customizable?
Definitely! You can customize it by adding your favorite toppings such as crispy bacon or different types of cheese. Feel free to swap out the ground beef for chicken or a meat alternative for a different twist.
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).