Save A festive and comforting casserole featuring crispy tater tots, savory ground beef, and creamy vegetables&perfect for a quick holiday meal.
This dish always brings warmth and joy to our family gatherings during the holidays.
Ingredients
- Meats: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- Vegetables: 1 medium onion, finely chopped, 1 cup (120 g) frozen peas and carrots, 1/2 cup (60 g) frozen corn
- Sauces & Dairy: 1 can (10.5 oz/298 g) condensed cream of mushroom soup, 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk, 1 1/2 cups (170 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- Topping: 1 (32 oz/900 g) bag frozen tater tots
- Seasonings: 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Garnish (optional): 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Step 2:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until beef is browned and onion is soft, about 6 8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Step 3:
- Stir in the peas, carrots, and corn. Cook for 2 minutes until warmed through.
- Step 4:
- Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Step 5:
- Spread the beef and vegetable mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup (115 g) of the cheddar cheese over the top.
- Step 6:
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese.
- Step 7:
- Bake for 30 minutes, until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
- Step 8:
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup (55 g) of cheddar cheese over the tater tots and bake for another 5 minutes, until cheese is melted.
- Step 9:
- Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
Save Making this casserole together has become a treasured family tradition each Christmas.
Notes
For a festive touch, use red bell peppers and green peas for extra Christmas color. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Add a pinch of smoked paprika for extra flavor. Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
Required Tools
Large skillet, 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish, mixing spoon, measuring cups and spoons, oven
Nutritional Information
Calories 485, Total Fat 28 g, Carbohydrates 36 g, Protein 22 g per serving.
Save This casserole combines ease and festive flavors for a quick holiday dinner.
Recipe Help & FAQs
- → Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a lighter alternative without compromising flavor.
- → How do I know when the tater tots are perfectly crispy?
They should be golden brown and crisp on top after about 30 minutes of baking.
- → Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely, assemble it in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best texture.
- → What can I add for extra festive color?
Red bell peppers and green peas add brightness and enhance the holiday feel.
- → Is it possible to make this dish spicier?
Adding smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper will introduce a gentle heat.