Craving a hearty, satisfying meal that's also surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this elevated hamburger and tater tot casserole! This recipe takes a beloved comfort food classic and adds a few gourmet touches, transforming it from a simple weeknight dinner to a delicious dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. It’s packed with flavor, textures, and is surprisingly healthy, making it one of the best recipes for a quick and easy dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or 80/20)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed tomato soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 cups tater tots
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Simmer the sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato soup, beef broth, oregano, basil, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Assemble the casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour half of the meat sauce into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with half of the shredded cheddar cheese, then arrange half of the tater tots in a single layer. Repeat layers with the remaining meat sauce, cheese, and tater tots.
- Bake until golden: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley (optional) and serving hot.
Tips for the Best Hamburger and Tater Tot Casserole:
- Use good quality ground beef: The flavor of your ground beef will significantly impact the overall taste of the casserole.
- Don't overcook the tater tots: Overcooked tater tots will become dry and hard. Start checking for doneness around the 25-minute mark.
- Add some heat: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
- Get creative with cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like chopped carrots, bell peppers, or corn into the meat sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
- Make it cheesy: Add an extra layer of cheese between the tater tots for an even cheesier casserole.
- Use different potatoes: If you prefer, you could substitute the tater tots with other types of potatoes, such as cubed sweet potatoes or russet potatoes. Just be sure to adjust cooking time accordingly.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This delicious hamburger and tater tot casserole is a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor and satisfaction. It's a great option for busy weeknights, family dinners, or potlucks. Enjoy this quick and healthy meal, and don't hesitate to experiment with your favorite variations!