Tarter Tot Casserol

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Everyone loves a comforting, budget-friendly dish that brings back memories of home, and our Tarter Tot Casserol is just that. It’s satisfying, nostalgic, and packed full of flavors that will make your whole family rush to the table. 

The Tarter Tot Casserol is a versatile dish that can easily be adapted to suit your personal tastes. Want a meat substitute? Not a problem. Craving more veggies? You got it. Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, you can start adding your personal touches.

What is Tarter Tot Casserol?

Tater Tot Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish made by layering cooked ground beef, creamy mushroom or cheese sauce, and vegetables like green beans or corn, all topped with crispy tater tots and baked until golden brown. This casserole offers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

To complement Tater Tot Casserole, you can pair it with:

1. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
2. Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or carrots provide added nutrients and color.
3. Garlic bread or dinner rolls will soak up any remaining sauce and add a tasty, crunchy element to your meal.

Enjoy this classic comfort food with these simple yet delicious sides!

You might enjoy these frugal recipes:

• Leftover Potato Casserole
• Instant Pot Chicken Lentil Soup

Tarter Tot Casserol Ingredients

• Ground beef – Adds a savory and hearty base
• Cream of mushroom soup – Contributes a creamy, earthy flavor and smooth texture
• Frozen tater tots – Create a crispy, golden topping
• Shredded cheddar cheese divided – Melts to add a rich, cheesy flavor 
• Salt and pepper – to add taste

How to Make Tarter Tot Casserol

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to make the Tarter Tot Casserol. All you have to do is follow the steps below:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F and let it preheat while you prepare the ingredients.
2. Cook the Ground Meat: In a large pan, cook the ground meat on medium heat until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
3. Drain the Grease: Carefully drain any excess grease from the pan to make the dish less oily.
4. Add the Cream of Mushroom Soup: Stir in one can of cream of mushroom soup with the cooked meat until everything is well combined.
5. Prepare the Baking Dish: Pour the meat and soup mixture into a greased 9 x 13” baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly.
6. Add Cheese and Tater Tots: Sprinkle ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the meat mixture. Place a layer of frozen tater tots on top of the cheese.
7. Bake the Casserole: Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops of the tater tots are golden brown.
8. Add More Cheese: Take the dish out of the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the tater tots.
9. Finish Baking: Put the dish back in the oven for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese melts and starts to brown.

Enjoy your delicious Tater Tot Casserole!

Tips For Making This Recipe

1. Quality Ingredients: High-quality ingredients make a big difference. Choose fresh and organic options whenever possible.
2. Properly Brown Your Beef: Make sure your ground beef is fully browned before proceeding to the next steps. This ensures a great flavor profile within the casserol.
3. Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. While cheddar is a classic, mozzarella or Monterey Jack will be just as delicious.
4. Oven Temperature: Preheat your oven to the right temperature before you start. This will help your Tarter Tot Casserol cook evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different kind of meat in this recipe?

Yes, you can use a different kind of meat in your Tater Tot Casserole. Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage work well as substitutes for ground beef. Just cook the meat the same way until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. Each type of meat will give the casserole a slightly different flavor, so feel free to choose the one you like best. Remember to drain any excess grease before adding the cream of mushroom soup.

Can I add vegetables to this casserol?

Absolutely, you can add vegetables to your Tater Tot Casserole! Popular choices include peas, corn, green beans, or carrots. Simply mix the vegetables with the cooked meat and cream of mushroom soup before pouring it into the baking dish. This not only adds extra flavor but also makes the casserole more nutritious. Frozen or canned veggies work well and save you time on prep.

Can I freeze the Tarter Tot Casserol?

Yes, you can freeze Tater Tot Casserole! Follow these steps to enjoy your casserole later:

1. Prepare the Casserole: Follow all the steps to prepare the casserole, but do not bake it.
2. Cool It Down: Let the casserole cool completely if you’ve already cooked the meat and combined it with other ingredients.
3. Wrap and Seal: Cover the unbaked casserole tightly with plastic wrap and then a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
4. Label and Freeze: Label it with the date and contents, then place it in the freezer.
5. Reheat: When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Bake at 350°F for about 45 minutes or until it’s hot and bubbly.

Have you tried Tarter Tot Casserol? Then, make sure to rate and review this recipe. Enjoy your warm, cheesy Tater Tot Casserole fresh out of the oven, perfect for a comforting meal. With this recipe, you’re well on your way to perfecting your own homemade Tarter Tot Casserol. Get cooking and enjoy!