Cheesy Venison Tater Tot Delight
This hearty and delicious Cheesy Venison Tater Tot Delight is a family favorite that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table. Utilizing lean ground venison, this dish combines savory beefy flavors with creamy mushroom soup and gooey cheddar cheese. The crunchy tater tots on top add a fun and satisfying texture that kids absolutely adore! Ideal for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this casserole is a perfect showcase for your hunting endeavors, and even if you have ground beef on hand, it's just as delightful. Everyone will be asking for seconds!
6
Servings
400
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
ground venison
1 lb (thawed)
minced garlic
1 tablespoon (fresh or jarred)
minced onion
1 tablespoon (fresh or jarred)
cream of mushroom soup
1 (10 3/4 ounce) can (ready to use)
cheddar cheese
1 1/2 cups (shredded)
tater tots
1 (10 ounce) package (frozen)
garlic powder
1 teaspoon (dry)
salt
1 teaspoon (to taste)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the tater tots package, usually 425°F (220°C).
2
Spread the tater tots evenly on a baking pan and bake for about 10 minutes to start crisping them up.
3
While the tater tots are baking, take a skillet over medium heat and add the ground venison, garlic, and onion. Cook until the venison is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
4
Reduce heat to low, and stir in the cream of mushroom soup with the cooked venison, mixing well until everything is combined and creamy.
5
Grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray or a bit of oil, then pour the venison mixture evenly into the dish, spreading it flat.
6
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the venison mixture.
7
Carefully place the baked tater tots on top of the cheese layer, arranging them in a neat row or pattern.
8
Sprinkle garlic powder and salt evenly over the tater tots for extra flavor.
9
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
10
Once done, let it cool slightly before serving to your hungry family. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
23g
Fat
30g
Carbs
30g
Protein
5g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary protein used in Cheesy Venison Tater Tot Delight?
The primary protein used is one pound of thawed ground venison.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe serves approximately 6 people.
What is the total calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 400 calories.
Can I use ground beef if I do not have venison?
Yes, ground beef is a perfectly delightful substitute for ground venison in this dish.
What oven temperature is required for baking?
The oven should be preheated to 425°F (220°C) or the temperature specified on the tater tot package.
What size baking dish should be used?
A 9x13 inch casserole dish is recommended.
How long does it take to cook the ground venison?
The venison should be cooked with garlic and onion for about 5 to 7 minutes until browned.
Is it necessary to pre-bake the tater tots?
Yes, you should bake the tater tots for about 10 minutes initially to start crisping them up.
How long does the completed casserole bake in the oven?
The casserole bakes for an additional 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
How much protein is provided in one serving?
Each serving contains 30 grams of protein.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 23 grams of fat in each serving.
How many carbohydrates are in each serving?
Each serving contains 30 grams of carbohydrates.
What is the fiber content of this casserole?
This dish provides 5 grams of fiber per serving.
What type of cheese is used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
Which canned soup is used for the base?
A 10.75 ounce can of cream of mushroom soup is used to create the creamy base.
What seasonings are applied to the top of the casserole?
One teaspoon of garlic powder and one teaspoon of salt are sprinkled over the tater tots.
How do you layer the ingredients?
Layer the venison mixture on the bottom, followed by shredded cheese, and then the tater tots on top.
Should the meat be drained after browning?
Yes, you should drain any excess grease from the skillet after the venison is fully cooked.
What is the overall flavor profile of this dish?
It is a savory, beefy, and creamy comfort food with a crunchy and cheesy topping.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick weeknight meal?
Yes, it is specifically described as ideal for busy weeknights.
Can I use jarred minced garlic and onion?
Yes, the recipe allows for either fresh or jarred minced garlic and onion.
How should I prepare the casserole dish?
Grease the dish with cooking spray or a small amount of oil before adding the mixture.
Why is the cream of mushroom soup added?
It is added to the cooked venison to create a combined and creamy texture.
How many total ingredients are required for this recipe?
There are 8 specific ingredients used in this recipe.
Is this dish considered kid-friendly?
Yes, the crunchy tater tots and familiar flavors make it a favorite for children.
How do I know when the casserole is finished?
The casserole is done when it is bubbly and the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
What preparation is needed for the ground venison?
The ground venison should be thawed before cooking.
Should the casserole rest before serving?
Yes, it is recommended to let it cool slightly before serving to the family.
What size package of tater tots is needed?
You need one 10-ounce package of frozen tater tots.
How should the tater tots be arranged on top?
They can be placed in a neat row or pattern for a more satisfying presentation.