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 cozy casserole during the holidays and it quickly became a family favorite for its ease and festive flavors.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g)
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Frozen peas and carrots: 1 cup (120 g)
- Frozen corn: 1/2 cup (60 g)
- Condensed cream of mushroom soup: 1 can (10.5 oz/298 g)
- Whole milk: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Cheddar cheese: 1 1/2 cups (170 g), shredded
- Frozen tater tots: 1 (32 oz/900 g) bag
- Garlic powder: 1/2 tsp
- Dried thyme: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Chopped fresh parsley: 2 tbsp, optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Cook beef and onion:
- 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.
- Cook vegetables:
- Stir in the peas, carrots, and corn. Cook for 2 minutes until warmed through.
- Mix soup and seasonings:
- Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Assemble casserole:
- Spread the beef and vegetable mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup (115 g) of the cheddar cheese over the top.
- Add tater tots:
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese.
- Bake first phase:
- Bake for 30 minutes, until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
- Add remaining cheese:
- 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.
- Garnish and serve:
- Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
Save This casserole always brings smiles when shared with family during holiday dinners and winter gatherings.
Tips for Meal Prep
You can prepare the mixture a day ahead and refrigerate; add tater tots just before baking for best texture.
Variations
Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or add red bell peppers for extra color.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a fresh side salad or steamed green beans to complete the meal.
Save This casserole recipe is perfect for creating festive memories with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.