Save A festive and comforting casserole featuring crispy tater tots, savory ground beef, and creamy vegetables& perfect for a quick holiday meal.
I first served this dish during the holidays and it quickly became a family favorite for its ease and festive flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef:
- 1 medium onion: finely chopped
- 1 cup (120 g) frozen peas and carrots:
- 1/2 cup (60 g) frozen corn:
- 1 can (10.5 oz/298 g) condensed cream of mushroom soup:
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk:
- 1 1/2 cups (170 g) shredded cheddar cheese:
- 1 (32 oz/900 g) bag frozen tater tots:
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder:
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme:
- 1/2 tsp salt:
- 1/4 tsp black pepper:
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley: optional garnish
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Step 2:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until beef is browned and onion is soft, about 6 8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Step 3:
- Stir in the peas, carrots, and corn. Cook for 2 minutes until warmed through.
- Step 4:
- Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Step 5:
- Spread the beef and vegetable mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup (115 g) of the cheddar cheese over the top.
- Step 6:
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese.
- Step 7:
- Bake for 30 minutes, until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
- Step 8:
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup (55 g) of cheddar cheese over the tater tots and bake for another 5 minutes, until cheese is melted.
- Step 9:
- Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
Save This recipe always brings my family together around the table for a cozy holiday meal.
Notes
For a festive touch, use red bell peppers and green peas for extra Christmas color. 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
Allergen Information
Contains Milk, Wheat (in cream of mushroom soup), and possibly Soy. Double-check soup and tater tot labels for hidden allergens.
Save This casserole is perfect for busy holiday nights and can be customized with your favorite vegetables.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can ground turkey be used instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter, leaner option without compromising flavor.
- → What vegetables complement this dish best?
Frozen peas, carrots, and corn blend well, adding sweetness and texture to the savory base.
- → How do I achieve crispy tater tots on top?
Arrange tater tots in a single layer and bake until golden, then add cheese and bake briefly again to melt it fully.
- → Can this be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it in advance and refrigerate before baking, then cook when ready to serve.
- → What can enhance the festive appearance?
Adding red bell peppers and extra green peas adds vibrant holiday colors to the dish.