Description
A comforting and hearty Tater Tot Casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, savory vegetables in a creamy sauce, topped with crispy tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a family meal or potluck dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 medium white onion, diced
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can corn kernels, drained
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can green beans, drained
Topping
- 32 ounces frozen tater tots
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef seasoned with salt and black pepper until browned, about 8 minutes. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Make the Roux: Add butter to the saucepan and melt completely. Stir in the flour and cook while stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Add Liquids and Vegetables: Gradually whisk in beef broth, milk, and Worcestershire sauce, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the drained corn and green beans. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the meat and vegetable mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top, then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the tots.
- Bake: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use full-fat milk for a creamier sauce, or substitute with lactose-free milk if needed.
- For a lower-fat option, use lean ground beef or ground turkey.
- Frozen tater tots can be substituted with homemade potato cubes if desired.
- Vegetables can be varied based on preference; peas or mushrooms also work well.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to set before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
