Description
A comforting twist on classic shepherd’s pie, this Tater Tot Casserole layers savory ground beef, mixed vegetables, and melted cheddar cheese beneath a crispy golden tater tot topping. Perfect for a hearty family dinner that’s easy to prepare and irresistibly satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef or ground lamb
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Liquids and Cheese
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Topping
- 1 (28 oz) bag frozen tater tots
Instructions
- Preheat and brown the meat: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or lamb until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain off excess fat if necessary to prevent greasiness.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add seasonings and thicken sauce: Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir to combine well. Cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Incorporate broth and veggies: Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until it slightly thickens. Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, then remove the skillet from heat.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the filling. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.
- Bake until golden and crispy: Bake the casserole uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Finish with cheese topping: Remove the casserole from the oven, scatter the remaining cheese over the hot tater tots, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully.
- Rest and serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving to allow the layers to set for easier slicing and serving.
Notes
- Prepare the casserole ahead of time by assembling it and refrigerating unbaked for up to 24 hours; then bake as directed.
- For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken instead of beef or lamb.
- Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
