Tater Tot-Hamburger Casserole
A hearty casserole combining crispy Tater Tots, savory hamburger, and creamy soups, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place Tater Tots in the bottom of an ungreased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Brown hamburger with the onion lightly, stirring often.
- Spread hamburger-onion mixture and drained corn over Tater Tots.
- Combine the undiluted cream of chicken, celery, and mushroom soups and pour over the layered ingredients.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 to 40 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce to the hamburger while browning. If you want to lighten the dish, substitute ground turkey for the hamburger. You can also mix in some frozen mixed vegetables for added nutrition. Ensure the Tater Tots are spread evenly to achieve a uniform crispy texture during baking.
Serving Suggestions
This Tater Tot-Hamburger Casserole makes a hearty main dish and pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Try serving it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top for extra flavor. It’s a great comfort food option that goes well with American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until heated through, ensuring the Tater Tots retain their crispiness. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven method is recommended for best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tater Tot-Hamburger Casserole contains roughly 888 calories, with 25g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (50% of the Daily Value), iron (37% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for cream soups?
If you prefer not to use canned cream soups, you can make your own by combining equal parts of heavy cream and broth, thickened with a roux or cornstarch. This gives a fresher taste and allows you to control the ingredients better.
Can I use different types of meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the meat is cooked thoroughly before layering in the 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).