Tater tot casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines crispy potato goodness with savory flavors in one delicious dish. This version, enhanced with green beans, adds a nutritious twist to the classic recipe while maintaining that homey, satisfying quality we all crave.
Who doesn’t love the convenience of a one-dish meal that pleases even the pickiest eaters?
This tater tot casserole with green beans is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or anytime you need a hearty meal that brings everyone to the table with smiles.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups fresh or frozen green beans
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with diced onions until the meat is no longer pink and the onions are translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Drain any excess fat from the meat mixture and return to the skillet.
Add both cans of soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper, stirring until well combined, then gently fold in the green beans until they’re evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Pour the meat and green bean mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the mixture, then arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top, covering the entire surface. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
FAQs
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
Can I use fresh green beans instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If using fresh green beans, blanch them for 3-4 minutes in boiling water before adding to the casserole to ensure they cook properly.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
You can substitute the ground meat with plant-based ground “beef” or 2 cups of sautéed mushrooms, and use cream of celery soup instead of the chicken and mushroom soups.
How do I store leftovers?
Cover and refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or place the casserole back in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it either before or after baking. If freezing unbaked, thaw completely before baking. If freezing after baking, thaw and reheat until hot throughout.
Conclusion
This tater tot casserole with green beans combines convenience and comfort in one delicious dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
The crispy tater tot topping paired with the savory meat filling and nutritious green beans creates a balanced meal that satisfies on every level.
