Save 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 been a favorite at our holiday dinners, bringing warmth and smiles every time I serve it.
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
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.
- Stir vegetables:
- Stir in the peas, carrots, and corn. Cook for 2 minutes until warmed through.
- Add soups and seasonings:
- Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Spread mixture:
- Spread the beef and vegetable mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup (115 g) of the cheddar cheese over the top.
- Arrange tater tots:
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake for 30 minutes, until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
- Top with 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 It Our family enjoys this casserole during holidays when we all gather around the table sharing stories and laughter.
Notes
For a festive touch, use red bell peppers and green peas for extra Christmas color. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. 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.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 485 calories, 28 g total fat, 36 g carbohydrates, 22 g protein.
Save It This casserole delivers holiday comfort fast and reliably, making it a timeless family favorite.