Imagine a dish that combines the hearty goodness of a traditional shepherd’s pie with the crispy, golden delight of tater tots. This Shepherd’s Pie Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that brings together the best of both worlds – a rich, savory beef base topped with perfectly crisp potato nuggets and melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or when you’re craving something indulgently delicious, this recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (454g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (150g) frozen peas and carrots
- 1 can (10.5 oz / 298g) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup (120ml) beef broth
- 2 cups (226g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 bag (32 oz / 907g) frozen tater tots
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven Set your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it’s ready for baking.
- Prepare the Beef Base In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onions are soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
- Create the Flavor Base Stir in the frozen peas and carrots, cream of mushroom soup, and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the mixture is heated through and well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and transfer the beef and vegetable mixture, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Top with an even layer of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Add the Tater Tot Topping Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single, beautiful layer on top of the cheese, covering the entire surface.
- Bake to Perfection Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are crispy and golden brown, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and watch it disappear!
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 25g
- Servings: 6-8
Why This Recipe is a Crowd-Pleaser
This Shepherd’s Pie Tater Tot Casserole is more than just a meal – it’s a nutritious and satisfying dish that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table. The combination of lean ground beef provides protein, while the mixed vegetables add essential nutrients. The tater tots offer a crispy texture that kids and adults alike will love, making it a perfect family-friendly meal.
The dish is incredibly versatile – you can easily swap ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner option, or add additional vegetables to boost the nutritional value. It’s a one-pan meal that minimizes cleanup and maximizes flavor.
Pro Tip: For an extra kick, try adding a sprinkle of paprika or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture for added depth of flavor.
Medical Disclaimer: This recipe is intended for general nutritional purposes and is not a substitute for professional dietary advice. Individuals with specific health conditions or dietary restrictions should consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist.