Pin A festive and comforting casserole featuring crispy tater tots, savory ground beef, and creamy vegetables—perfect for a quick holiday meal.
This casserole has become a holiday favorite in my family, bringing quick comfort and smiles every time.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g)
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Frozen peas and carrots: 1 cup (120 g)
- Frozen corn: 1/2 cup (60 g)
- Condensed cream of mushroom soup: 1 can (10.5 oz/298 g)
- Whole milk: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 1/2 cups (170 g)
- Frozen tater tots: 1 (32 oz/900 g) bag
- Garlic powder: 1/2 tsp
- Dried thyme: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Preheat the oven:
- 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Cook beef and onion:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until beef is browned and onion is soft, about 6 8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in vegetables:
- Add peas carrots and corn. Cook for 2 minutes until warmed through.
- Add soup and seasoning:
- Add cream of mushroom soup milk garlic powder thyme salt and pepper. Mix well and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Spread mixture:
- Evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup (115 g) of the cheddar cheese over the top.
- Arrange tater tots:
- In a single layer over the cheese.
- Bake:
- For 30 minutes until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
- Add remaining cheese:
- Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup (55 g) of cheddar cheese over tater tots and bake for another 5 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Garnish and serve:
- With chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Pin This recipe has been the centerpiece of many family meals, creating joyful memories around the holiday table.
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
Pin This quick Christmas tater tot casserole offers festive flavors with minimal effort for your holiday feast.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, substituting ground turkey or chicken can provide a lighter variation without compromising flavor.
- → What type of cheese works best for this dish?
Sharp cheddar cheese melts well and adds a rich, tangy taste that complements the savory ingredients.
- → How do I ensure the tater tots stay crispy?
Baking the tater tots uncovered on top of the casserole allows them to crisp up nicely during cooking.
- → Can I add extra vegetables to this dish?
Yes, adding red bell peppers or green peas enhances color and adds freshness to the casserole.
- → Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?
You can assemble the layers ahead of time and refrigerate before baking, making it ideal for busy days.