Pin It A festive and comforting casserole featuring crispy tater tots, savory ground beef, and creamy vegetables—perfect for a quick holiday meal.
This casserole has become a staple in our holiday gatherings, bringing warmth and comfort to every table.
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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)
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 1/2 cups (170 g)
- 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 (optional): 2 tbsp
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Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat the oven to 400℉ (200℃). 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.
- Add vegetables:
- Stir in the peas, carrots, and corn. Cook for 2 minutes until warmed through.
- Mix sauces and seasonings:
- Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Layer 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 time:
- 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.
Pin It This recipe always brings my family together around the table, creating joyful memories every holiday season.
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Notes
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.
Pin It 
This casserole recipe is both a comforting classic and a quick holiday winner to enjoy again and again.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I substitute the ground beef with other meats?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter flavor while maintaining a similar texture.
- → How long should the casserole bake for crispy tater tots?
Bake for 30 minutes until tater tots are golden, then add cheese and bake another 5 minutes until melted and bubbly.
- → What vegetables complement this dish?
Frozen peas, carrots, and corn add sweetness and texture, balancing the savory beef and cheese.
- → Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the layers and refrigerate before baking, but baking time may slightly increase from chilled.
- → Are there suggested garnishes to enhance flavor?
Fresh chopped parsley adds color and a mild herbal brightness as a finishing touch.
- → What seasoning best enhances the overall flavor?
Garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper create a warm, balanced seasoning blend that complements the dish well.
