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Easy Cheesy Tater Tot Hotdish

A classic comfort food casserole featuring seasoned ground beef and vegetables in a creamy sauce, topped with a layer of crispy tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. Easy to make and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course: Casserole, Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb Ground Beef Use 80/20 for flavor, or leaner if you prefer; just drain well!
  • 1 small Onion diced
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 can Cream of Mushroom Soup 10.5 oz
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream
  • 1 cup Frozen Mixed Vegetables Peas, carrots, corn, green beans – pick your favorite mix!
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 1/2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese Sharp or mild, your choice!
  • 1 bag Frozen Tater Tots 28 oz
  • Butter or nonstick spray for greasing

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch Baking Dish
  • Large skillet

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Step 2: Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
  3. Step 3: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion, breaking up the beef, until browned and onions are softened. Drain off any excess grease.
  4. Step 4: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and onions and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  5. Step 5: Reduce heat slightly, then stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, frozen mixed vegetables, garlic powder, pepper, and a little salt to start. Stir until everything is combined.
  6. Step 6: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese into the hot beef mixture until it begins to melt and is well distributed.
  7. Step 7: Pour the beef and cheese mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish and spread it into a flat layer.
  8. Step 8: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer neatly on top of the beef mixture.
  9. Step 9: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for about 35–40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
  10. Step 10: Take the hotdish out of the oven. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the crispy tots. Return it to the oven for about 5 more minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  11. Step 11: Let the hotdish cool slightly for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set a bit.

Notes

Drain excess grease from the ground beef for best results. Ensure tots are in a single layer for maximum crispiness and bake uncovered. Be mindful of salt initially as canned soup and cheese are salty. You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or lentils. Try different condensed soups like cream of chicken or celery, or cheddar cheese soup. Add extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms, or use different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for spice. Store cooled leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the dish loosely with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven.