Cheddar Tater Tot Casserole Delight
This Cheddar Tater Tot Casserole Delight brings back fond memories of cozy family dinners. A hearty one-dish meal that combines savory ground beef with vibrant green beans, smothered in creamy cheddar cheese soup, and topped with crispy tater tots. It's a comforting and satisfying dish that's incredibly easy to prepare and never fails to please a crowd. Perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend feast, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your household.
4-6
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Ground beef
1 lb (cooked and drained)
Green beans
1 can (15 ounces) (drained)
Cheddar cheese soup
1 can (10 3/4 ounces) (none)
Frozen tater tots
8 ounces (none (more if desired))
Shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup (optional, for topping)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven according to the tater tots package instructions.
2
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain any excess grease.
3
Spread the cooked ground beef evenly across the bottom of an ungreased 8x8-inch baking dish.
4
Drain the green beans and layer them over the ground beef, spreading them out evenly.
5
Pour the cheddar cheese soup over the green beans, smoothing it out with a spatula for an even layer.
6
Arrange the frozen tater tots on top of the soup layer, ensuring they cover the entire surface.
7
If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots for added cheesiness.
8
Bake in the oven according to the tater tot package instructions or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheddar Tater Tot Casserole Delight?
Cheddar Tater Tot Casserole Delight is a hearty one-dish meal that combines ground beef, green beans, and cheddar cheese soup, topped with crispy tater tots.
What are the primary ingredients needed?
The main ingredients are ground beef, canned green beans, cheddar cheese soup, frozen tater tots, and shredded cheddar cheese.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve between 4 and 6 people.
What size baking dish should be used?
An 8x8-inch baking dish is the recommended size for this recipe.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
No, the instructions specify using an ungreased baking dish.
How is the ground beef prepared?
The ground beef should be cooked in a skillet over medium heat until browned and then drained of excess grease.
Can I substitute the ground beef with another meat?
Yes, ground turkey or ground chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef.
What kind of green beans are required?
The recipe calls for one 15-ounce can of green beans, which should be drained.
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh green beans, but it is recommended to blanch them first to ensure they are tender.
What is the purpose of the cheddar cheese soup?
The soup acts as a creamy, cheesy sauce layer that binds the beef and vegetables together.
Do the tater tots need to be thawed before baking?
No, you should use frozen tater tots directly from the freezer.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
You should preheat your oven according to the temperature instructions on the tater tot package.
How do I arrange the layers in the dish?
Layer the cooked beef first, followed by drained green beans, then the soup, and finally the tater tots on top.
Is shredded cheese required for the topping?
Shredded cheddar cheese is optional but recommended for added cheesiness.
How do I know when the casserole is finished cooking?
Bake until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, following the time suggested on the tater tot package.
Can I add onions or garlic to this recipe?
Yes, adding onions or garlic to the skillet while browning the beef can enhance the flavor.
Can this casserole be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the layers in advance and store the dish in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, the casserole can be frozen either before or after baking; ensure it is wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheating in the oven is best to keep the tater tots crispy, though a microwave can be used for convenience.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, this is a very kid-friendly meal due to its familiar ingredients and cheesy flavor profile.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and use a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, frozen green beans can be used; just make sure to thaw and drain them well before layering.
What other soups can I use besides cheddar cheese soup?
Cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup are popular substitutes.
Are there any suggested seasonings?
While the recipe is simple, you can add salt, pepper, or onion powder to the beef for extra depth.
How many ingredients are in the basic version of this recipe?
The basic version uses 5 ingredients: beef, beans, soup, tots, and optional cheese.
What makes this a 'one-dish meal'?
It is considered a one-dish meal because it contains protein, vegetables, and starch all in a single baking dish.
Is this considered comfort food?
Yes, it is tagged as comfort food because it is warm, savory, and satisfying.
How long does it take to brown the ground beef?
It typically takes about 5 to 10 minutes to fully brown the beef over medium heat.
Can I use a different type of cheese for the topping?
Yes, you can use pepper jack for spice or a Mexican blend for a different flavor profile.