Beef and Tater Tot Hot Dish (55 Minutes)

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty, hot dish. This beef and tater tot rendition brings together savory ground beef, the mild sweetness of corn, and crispy tater tots into one delightful casserole. Topped off with melted cheese and caramelized onions, this dish is reminiscent of classic home-cooked meals, perfect for family dinners or gathering with friends. Let’s dive into making this comforting crowd-pleaser!

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cups frozen corn kernels
  • 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
  • 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp paprika (optional)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven (5 minutes): Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook Ground Beef and Onion (8 minutes): In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika if using.
  3. Add Corn and Soup Mixture (6 minutes): Stir in the frozen corn. In a separate bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Pour this mixture over the beef and corn, stirring well to combine.
  4. Assemble the Dish (5 minutes): Transfer the beef and corn mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Layer the frozen tater tots over the beef mixture, covering it completely. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the tater tots.
  5. Bake (25-30 minutes): Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Serve (3 minutes): Allow the hot dish to sit for a few minutes before serving. Dig in and enjoy the layers of flavors and textures!

Notes

The beauty of a hot dish is its adaptability. If you’d like to sneak in more veggies, consider adding some chopped bell peppers or green beans to the beef mixture. For an extra layer of flavor, a sprinkling of fresh herbs or green onions just before serving can be delightful. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables on the side. And, if you’re looking to quench your thirst, a cold glass of iced tea or a light beer makes an excellent companion.

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 590
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 33g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Pair this with...

Simple Tossed Salad

Start by tearing your iceberg lettuce into bite-sized pieces, ensuring a cool and crunchy base. Thinly slice a red onion, adding a pop of color and a zesty kick. For a refreshing crunch, slice up some cucumber, and for a sweet contrast, add in slivers of red pepper. Once your components are prepped and in the bowl, give everything a good toss, ensuring the ingredients are mixed and every bite will have a little bit of everything. For a simple dressing, squeeze the juice of a fresh lemon over the top, adding a burst of citrusy brightness.

Oven Baked Onion Rings

Start with a large sweet onion and slice it into rings, separating them gently. Now, prep a dredging station: In one bowl, whisk together some flour, salt, and pepper. In a second bowl, beat a couple of eggs. And in a third, mix together breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch!) with a bit of paprika or your favorite seasonings. Dip each onion ring into the flour, ensuring it's coated, then into the egg wash, and lastly, press it into the breadcrumbs, ensuring it's well-coated. Arrange the coated rings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Spritz them lightly with cooking spray which will help achieve that golden color. Bake in a preheated oven until they're crispy and golden brown.

Homemade Unsweetened Iced Tea

Begin by choosing a quality black, green, or herbal tea – your preference will set the tone. Bring a pot of fresh water to a gentle boil and steep your tea bags or loose leaves, letting the tea brew a bit stronger than if you were making it hot, as it will mellow when chilled. Once you’ve achieved that deep, aromatic infusion, remove the tea and let it cool to room temperature. Transfer your tea to a pitcher and pop it into the fridge to cool down and intensify the flavors. When serving, fill a glass with ice cubes, pour over the chilled tea, and maybe add a slice of lemon or sprig of mint for a touch of flair.

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