Tot Casserole
A hearty casserole featuring seasoned hamburger, creamy mushroom and cheese sauces, topped with crispy potato tots and melted cheddar, perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger and drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion, small can of mushrooms, Worcestershire sauce, and Morton seasoning salt to the hamburger.
- Cook until the onion and mushrooms are tender and the mixture is done.
- Mix the cream of mushroom soup, cheddar cheese soup, and water together in a bowl.
- Add the soup mixture to the cooked hamburger mixture and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into a long pan or glass dish.
- Sprinkle grated Cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Layer potato tots on top of the cheese layer.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until the potatoes are cooked, about 20 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier dish, consider adding frozen mixed vegetables to the hamburger mixture. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños. You can substitute ground turkey for the hamburger for a lighter version or use a different cheese like Monterey Jack instead of cheddar. Make sure to drain the mushrooms well to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the tot casserole with a side salad for a refreshing contrast, or pair it with garlic bread for a hearty meal. For a fun twist, consider serving it with a side of ranch dressing for dipping the tots. This dish also pairs beautifully with Baked Ham Slices for a festive occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tot Casserole contains roughly 166 calories, with 8g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value) and calcium (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 579mg 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 use fresh mushrooms instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh mushrooms can enhance the flavor and texture of the casserole. Simply slice them and sauté them with the onion until they're tender before adding them to the hamburger. This will add a lovely depth of flavor to the dish.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup on hand, you can substitute it with homemade white sauce mixed with sautéed mushrooms or use cream of chicken soup for a different flavor profile. Both alternatives will still provide the creamy consistency needed for the casserole.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through. This is a great option for meal prepping or entertaining.
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).