Background and History
Tater Tot Casserole is a beloved comfort food that has roots in Midwestern American cuisine. This hearty dish became popular in the 1950s after the introduction of tater tots by the Ore-Ida company. It’s known for its simplicity and the delicious combination of ground beef, vegetables, and crispy tater tots, all baked together in a creamy sauce. Over the decades, Tater Tot Casserole has become a family favorite, often appearing at potlucks, family dinners, and gatherings.
Serves
6-8
Time
Total: 1 hour
Cooking Time
45 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 package (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Cooking spray
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
-
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Prepare the Sauce
- In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream.
- Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, salt, pepper, and paprika.
Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the soup and vegetable mixture over the ground beef and spread it out evenly.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the mixture.
Bake the Casserole
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 950mg
Notes
- For a lighter version, you can use ground turkey instead of ground beef and low-fat versions of the soups and sour cream.
- Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Allergy Warning
- This recipe contains dairy (cheese, sour cream, soups).
- It also contains gluten (soups).
- Ensure there are no cross-contaminants if serving someone with food allergies.
- Always check the labels of the ingredients for potential allergens.
What is tater tot casserole made of?
Tater tot casserole is made of ground beef, onions, garlic, condensed cream of mushroom and chicken soups, sour cream, mixed vegetables, shredded cheese, and a layer of crispy tater tots on top.
Why is it called a tater tot?
The name “tater tot” comes from “tater,” an American slang term for potato, and “tot,” referring to their small, bite-sized shape.
What to eat with tater tot casserole?
Tater tot casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or a side of coleslaw for a balanced meal.
What country is tater tot casserole from?
Tater tot casserole is from the United States, specifically popular in the Midwest region.
Why is it called tater?
“Tater” is a colloquial term derived from “potato,” commonly used in American English.
Is a tater tot a potato?
Yes, a tater tot is a potato product. It is made from grated potatoes that are formed into small cylinders and fried until crispy.
What are tater tots called in England?
In England, tater tots are often referred to as “potato croquettes” or simply “potato bites.”
Is casserole American food?
Yes, casseroles are a staple of American cuisine, known for their convenience and versatility in combining various ingredients into a single dish.
What is in casserole?
A casserole typically includes a protein (like meat or beans), vegetables, a starchy binder (such as pasta, rice, or potatoes), and a sauce or liquid, all baked together.
When did Tater Tot casserole become popular?
Tater tot casserole became popular in the mid-20th century, particularly after the introduction of tater tots by the Ore-Ida company in the 1950s.
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