Directions
Preparing the Filling
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it is no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Add Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Mix in Vegetables and Sauce: Stir in the frozen peas and carrots mix, condensed cheddar cheese soup, ketchup, mustard, salt, and pepper. Cook until everything is well combined and heated through.
Assembling the Casserole
Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the beef mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Add Cheese and Tater Tots: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture, then arrange the tater tots in a single layer on top.
Baking
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
Optional Cheese Topping: For an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle additional shredded cheese over the tater tots during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Serving
Cool Slightly: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Large skillet
Mixing spoon
9×13-inch baking dish
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Tips for Perfect Tater Tot Cheeseburger Casserole
Even Layer of Tater Tots: Make sure the tater tots are arranged in a single layer to ensure they bake evenly and become crispy.
Customize the Filling: Feel free to add your favorite burger toppings like cooked bacon, pickles, or sautéed mushrooms to the beef mixture.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Recipe Variations and Swaps
Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative and use a vegetarian condensed cheese soup.
Southwest Style: Add black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning to the beef mixture for a southwest twist.
FAQ
Q: Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen peas and carrots?
A: Yes, you can use fresh vegetables. Just make sure to cook them slightly before adding them to the beef mixture to ensure they are tender.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Q: What can I serve with this casserole?
A: This casserole is a meal on its own, but you can serve it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete dinner.
Food Pairings
This tater tot cheeseburger casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes and drinks. Here are a few suggestions:
Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a nice contrast to the richness of the casserole.
Coleslaw: A crisp coleslaw adds a crunchy and refreshing element to the meal.
Milkshakes: For a true diner experience, serve the casserole with classic chocolate or vanilla milkshakes.
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