Can I use a different cream soup instead of mushroom?

Absolutely! Cream of chicken, cream of celery, or even cheddar soup works wonderfully in this recipe. Each will bring a slightly different flavor profile, so choose based on your family's preferences or what you have in your pantry.

What can I use instead of tater tots?

While tater tots give this casserole its signature appeal, you can substitute frozen hash browns, crispy crown potatoes, or even a layer of mashed potatoes (though you'll lose the crispy texture). Each variation creates a slightly different but equally delicious casserole.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, you may need to add 5-10 minutes to the cooking time since it will be starting cold. For best results, add the tater tots just before baking.

Is there a way to make this casserole healthier?

Definitely! Try using lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, opt for low-sodium soup, use reduced-fat cheese, and add extra vegetables to the meat mixture. Some people even use sweet potato tots for a nutritional boost while maintaining that crispy topping.

Paige's Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

Description

Paige’s Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate comfort food in a dish. This hearty recipe features layers of ground beef seasoned to perfection, a creamy mushroom soup topping, melted sharp cheddar cheese, and a crispy crown of golden tater tots. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a satisfying potluck classic, this easy-to-make casserole is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Base

1 pound ground chuck
1 medium onion, chopped
1 tablespoon ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic salt
1 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Topping

1 (10.75-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
3 to 4 cups frozen onion tater tots

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick.
Cook the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet, brown the ground chuck together with the chopped onion over medium heat. Stir frequently until the meat is fully cooked. Drain off any excess fat to remove grease.
Season the Beef
Add ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic salt, and smoked paprika to the cooked meat mixture. Stir well to allow the flavors to combine. Once mixed, spoon the beef mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Add the Soup Layer
Spread the undiluted cream of mushroom soup smoothly over the beef mixture. This creates a creamy barrier that enhances the casserole’s rich texture.
Sprinkle the Cheese
Add a layer of shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly on top of the soup. The cheese will melt and provide a delicious, gooey flavor.
Cover with Tater Tots
Arrange the frozen onion tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese. Ensure all the cheese is covered to create a crispy topping.
Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the tater tots are browned and crisp. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Variation Options: You can substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for the ground chuck if you prefer a leaner protein option.
Add Veggies: For additional nutrition, try adding frozen peas, green beans, or corn to the beef mixture before adding the soup.
Cheese Upgrade: Use a blend of cheeses, such as a mix of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack, for extra flavor.
Gluten-Free Tip: Ensure the cream of mushroom soup and tater tots are certified gluten-free for a gluten-free version of this recipe.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
Calories: 375
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 65mg