Pin It A comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole layered with savory ground beef, creamy sauce, cheese, and crispy tater tots—perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
This cozy meal has become a staple in our household, always satisfying everyone's appetite and bringing smiles to the dinner table.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (85% lean recommended)
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Frozen peas and carrots: 1 cup (150 g)
- Condensed cream of mushroom soup: 1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g)
- Whole milk: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 2 cups (200 g), divided
- Worcestershire sauce: 1/2 tsp
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
- Frozen tater tots: 1 bag (32 oz / 900 g)
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Cook ground beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté onion and garlic:
- Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add peas and carrots:
- Stir in frozen peas and carrots. Cook for 2 more minutes.
- Combine ingredients:
- Add cream of mushroom soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, 1 cup (100 g) cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and heated through.
- Assemble casserole:
- Spread beef mixture evenly in prepared baking dish.
- Add cheese layer:
- Sprinkle 1/2 cup (50 g) cheddar cheese over the beef layer.
- Add tater tots:
- Arrange frozen tater tots in a single, even layer on top.
- Bake first phase:
- Bake uncovered for 35 minutes.
- Finish baking:
- Remove from oven, sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup (50 g) cheddar cheese over tater tots, and bake another 10 minutes until cheese melts and tots are golden brown.
- Rest:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Pin It Making this casserole always brings back warm memories of family gatherings filled with laughter and full bellies.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or swap in ground turkey for a lighter version. Serve with a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Required Tools
Large skillet, 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish, mixing spoon, measuring cups and spoons, oven
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 480 calories, 28 g total fat, 35 g carbohydrates, 20 g protein
Pin It This dish is sure to become a favorite in your home just like it has in ours.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I substitute ground turkey for the beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a lighter alternative while maintaining a similar texture and flavor profile.
- → What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
Condensed cream of chicken soup is a good substitute that keeps the creamy texture and enhances the flavor.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if cold from the fridge.
- → What side dishes pair well with this casserole?
A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables complement the rich flavors and add freshness to the meal.