The colorful mix of vegetables adds balance, while the golden, crispy tater tots on top create the perfect crunchy contrast. Simple to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser, this dish is a wonderful way to bless your family and guests with a meal that feels like a home.
Why You’ll Want to Make Original Tater Tot Hotdish Recipe
This original tater tot casserole is the perfect dish for serving friends and family because it’s warm, comforting, and easy to prepare in just one pan. With hearty ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and crispy tater tots, it’s a satisfying crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together around the table.
- Delicious and comforting: Each bite is packed with rich, savory ground beef, creamy mushroom sauce, and crispy golden tater tots.
- Beginner-friendly: If you can brown ground beef and layer ingredients in a casserole dish, you can make this hot dish with ease.
- Time-Saving: Just 15 minutes of prep, then the oven does the rest. Perfect for busy weeknights or stress-free hosting.
- Easy on the wallet: Made with simple, pantry-staple ingredients, this dish serves a crowd without breaking the bank.
- Make-ahead friendly: You can assemble it ahead of time and bake when ready, making it ideal for hosting.
- Customizable: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey or stir in a handful of shredded cheddar cheese to add an extra richness of this classic dish.
Ingredients You Will Need For Original Tater Tot Hotdish Recipe
Here’s a quick overview of the key ingredients for this recipe. For the full list of ingredients and exact measurements, be sure to check the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Ground beef: Lean ground beef works well to avoid excess grease while still keeping the dish flavorful. If using higher-fat beef, drain any excess grease after browning to keep the dish from becoming too heavy.
- Yellow onion: Choose a firm onion with no soft spots. To save time, chop the onion in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Mixed vegetables: Frozen vegetables work best for a firmer texture in the hotdish. Look for a colorful mix of green beans, corn, and peas.
- Cream of mushroom soup: Look for a high-quality brand to ensure the creamiest texture.
- Frozen tater tots: Choose a brand with a good crispy texture. No need to thaw before baking. Keeping them frozen ensures they turn golden and crunchy on top.
Before You Get Started
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. This ensures the casserole bakes evenly and the tater tots get crispy.
- You’ll need a large skillet or frying pan to cook the ground beef and onions. For baking, prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish. This size works best to evenly distribute all the layers.
How To Make Original Tater Tot Hotdish Recipe
This comfort food comes together in just a few simple steps, making it perfect for a stress-free meal with family and friends.
Step 1: Cook Ground Beef And Layer With Veggies
In a large frying pan, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once it sizzles, add the ground beef and chopped onions, then season with salt and pepper. Cook for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally with a spatula, until the meat is fully browned and no pink remains.
Once your ground beef is cooked, drain off any excess liquid to keep the casserole from becoming too greasy. Using a slotted spoon, transfer half of the cooked beef mixture into the baking dish, spreading evenly. Scatter half of the mixed vegetables over the beef, adding a little extra salt and pepper if you like.
Step 2: Add The Cream Of Mushroom And Tater Tots
Pour one can of cream of mushroom soup over the vegetables, using the back of a spoon to spread it smoothly. Repeat the layers with the remaining beef, vegetables, and the second can of soup, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
Once done, place the Tater Tots in a single layer across the top, either in straight rows for a tidy look or scattered for a more rustic feel. Keeping them evenly spread helps them crisp up beautifully.
Pro Tip: Season each layer with a little extra salt and pepper to keep every bite delicious.
Step 3: Bake And Serve
Slide the baking dish into a preheated oven and let it bake for about 45 minutes. As it cooks, your kitchen will fill with the rich, savory aroma of the beef and onions mingling with the creamy sauce. The casserole is done when the Tater Tots are golden brown and crispy, and you can see the edges bubbling with warmth.
Pro Tip: For an even crispier topping, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
After baking, let the hotdish rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the layers to settle and makes scooping easier. Serve warm, with ketchup on the side for those who love a little extra tangy sweetness.
Tips And Variations
- For a lower-carb version, use cauliflower tots instead of tater tots.
- Add a layer of shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Swiss cheese between the beef and veggies for extra cheesy goodness.
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the beef while browning for a deeper umami flavor.
- Mix in a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
- For an ultra creamy, richer filling, stir a bit of sour cream into the cream of mushroom soup before layering.
Storage And Reheating Instructions
- Allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer leftovers to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, portion the cooled hotdish into freezer-safe containers or wrap the entire dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- When it’s time to enjoy the dish again, reheat a portion in the microwave in 30-second intervals. For larger portions, bake in the oven for 15 minutes while covered loosely with foil.
Tater tot hotdish is a famous Minnesota classic weeknight dinner. Other people might call it a casserole, but Minnesotans call it a hotdish. It’s a staple of church potlucks, family reunions, and community meals.
Your casserole may turn out soggy for many possible reasons:
1. The Tater Tots were thawed before baking
2. Too much liquid in the filling
3. No ventilation while baking
To prevent this from happening, use frozen tater tots straight from the bag. You should also drain any excess grease after cooking the beef and make sure to thicken your homemade cream sauce. Bake uncovered so moisture can evaporate.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
- Pairing Suggestions: Complement the hearty nature of the hotdish with a Creamy Fresh Tomato Soup or Fresh Mexican Coleslaw Salad for crunch and brightness.
- Drink Pairings: For a cozy gathering, serve the hotdish with Thirst Quenching Homemade Arnold Palmer Iced Tea Drink. Choose a crisp white wine for a special occasion.
- Hosting Tip: Assemble the hotdish earlier in the day, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake. This frees up time to focus on your guests and enjoy meaningful moments together.
If you’re a fan of hearty and comforting casseroles, you’ll love the Layered Cheesy Slow Cooker Mexican Casserole with Beef which is a flavorful twist on traditional casseroles. Chicken and Rice Casserole is perfect for family dinners, while Quick and Easy Zucchini Casserole is a great way to enjoy seasonal produce in a comforting dish.
Biblical Hospitality Reflection
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Original Tater Tot Hotdish Recipe
Note: Be sure to read through the recipe’s post for tips and details about this recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter, salted or unsalted
- 2 pounds ground beef, any kind
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste
- 16 ounces mixed frozen or canned vegetables, such as green beans, corn, peas, and carrots
- 2 cans cream of mushroom soup, 14 ounces each
- 24 ounces frozen Tater Tots
- Optional: Ketchup, for serving
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Cook the Ground Beef and Onions
- In a large frying pan, melt the butter over medium-high heat.1 tablespoon butter
- Add the ground beef and chopped onions, and season with 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt and 1 1/2 teaspoons of pepper.2 pounds ground beef, 1 large yellow onion, 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, 1 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- Cook the mixture, breaking up the beef with a spatula, until the meat is browned and no pink remains. This should take about 8 minutes.
- Drain any excess liquid.
Layer the Casserole
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer half of the cooked beef to the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly.
- Add half of the vegetables on top of the beef. Sprinkle with additional salt and pepper if desired.16 ounces mixed frozen or canned vegetables
- Pour one can of cream of mushroom soup over the vegetables, spreading it out as evenly as possible.2 cans cream of mushroom soup
- Repeat the layering with the remaining beef, vegetables, and the second can of cream of mushroom soup, spreading it out evenly.
- Arrange the frozen Tater Tots in a single layer on top, placing them in straight rows or columns to cover the surface completely.24 ounces frozen Tater Tots
Bake the Casserole
- Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes.
- The Tater Tots should be golden brown, and the casserole should be bubbling around the edges.
Serve
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve hot with ketchup on the side, if desired.Optional: Ketchup
Notes
Vegetable Options: You can use any mix of frozen or canned vegetables. If using canned vegetables, drain them well before adding.
Seasoning Adjustments: Taste and adjust salt and pepper to your liking during the layering process.
Leftover Storage: Cool the casserole to room temperature before covering tightly or transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through. For larger portions, cover with foil and reheat in a preheated 350-degree Fahrenheit oven for about 15 minutes.
