Description
Classic Tater Tot Hotdish is a comforting and hearty casserole featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, mixed vegetables, creamy mushroom soup, and crispy golden Tater Tots baked to perfection. This easy-to-make Midwestern favorite is perfect for family dinners and meal prep.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon salted or unsalted butter
- 2 pounds ground beef, any kind
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste
- 16 ounces mixed frozen or canned vegetables (green beans, corn, peas, and/or carrots)
- 2 (14-ounce) cans cream of mushroom soup
- 24 ounces frozen Tater Tots
- Ketchup, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400ºF to ensure it is hot and ready for baking the hotdish.
- Cook ground beef and onions: Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat and melt the butter. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, season with 1 1/2 teaspoons salt and 1 1/2 teaspoons pepper, and break up the meat with a spatula. Cook until the meat is no longer pink, about 8 minutes.
- Layer the hotdish: In a 9x13-inch baking dish, layer half of the cooked beef using a slotted spoon to avoid excess liquid. Add half the mixed vegetables on top, seasoning again to taste. Pour one can of cream of mushroom soup evenly over the vegetables. Repeat the layering with the remaining beef, vegetables, and soup. Finally, arrange the frozen Tater Tots in a single layer in straight rows and columns to cover the dish.
- Bake: Place the assembled hotdish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the Tater Tots are golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
- Serve and store: Let the hotdish cool slightly before serving. Optionally, serve with ketchup. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat uncovered in the microwave or covered in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes until heated through.
Notes
- Use frozen mixed vegetables for convenience or canned; just drain well.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper at each layering step for best flavor.
- If you prefer, swap cream of mushroom soup with a homemade white sauce for a fresher taste.
- Ensure Tater Tots are arranged in a single layer for the crispiest topping.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or oven; avoid reheating multiple times to maintain texture and safety.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 55 mins
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
