Description
A hearty and comforting tater tot casserole featuring browned hamburger, mushrooms, onions, green beans, and a creamy mushroom sauce layered over crispy tater tots and topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a family-friendly dinner that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb hamburger, browned
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 can mushrooms, drained
- 4 to 5 cups green beans
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 tsp garlic granules
- ½ tsp salt
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup water (plus more as needed)
Other
- 2 lb bag of tater tots
- 1½ to 2 cups cheddar cheese, grated
Instructions
- Brown the Hamburger: In a large pan over medium heat, brown and chunk the hamburger until fully cooked and no longer pink.
- Cook Onions and Mushrooms: Add the chopped onion, drained mushrooms, garlic granules, and ½ tsp salt to the pan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent. Add water as needed during cooking to keep the meat moist.
- Add Creamy Ingredients and Green Beans: Stir in the sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup water, and green beans. Mix thoroughly. If using frozen green beans, cook for a couple of minutes until they are pliable.
- Prepare Casserole Dish: Grease a large, deep casserole dish. Arrange a single layer of tater tots evenly over the bottom.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the prepared meat and vegetable mixture evenly over the tater tots, spreading to cover completely.
- Bake: Place the casserole dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake uncovered for 40 minutes, or until the center is bubbly and hot.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.
- Rest Before Serving: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes to allow it to set and cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of black pepper or other favorite seasonings.
- Using fresh green beans requires blanching before adding to the casserole to ensure tenderness.
- If preferred, substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or celery for a different flavor profile.
- This casserole can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving.
- Letting the casserole rest helps it hold its shape when serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
