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Cheesy Cowboy Casserole with Tater Tots

Cheesy Cowboy Casserole with Tater Tots
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Cheesy Cowboy Casserole with Tater Tots is a comforting and flavorful one-pan dish that combines hearty ground beef, savory spices, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy tater tots. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, this casserole delivers a filling, kid-friendly meal with simple ingredients and easy preparation.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Aromatics

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Sauces

  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Casserole Base

  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans or black beans (optional), drained and rinsed

Toppings

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (freshly shredded recommended)
  • 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots

Instructions

  1. Cook the Meat and Aromatics: Begin by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. As it starts to brown, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant to build a savory foundation for the casserole.
  2. Season and Combine Ingredients: Stir in chili powder, cumin, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper into the cooked meat mixture. Next, add the drained canned diced tomatoes and optional beans, letting everything simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors and soften the tomatoes slightly.
  3. Layer the Casserole: Transfer the meat and tomato mixture to a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the meat, then cover it all with a single layer of frozen tater tots to create the signature crispy topping.
  4. Bake Until Golden and Bubbly: Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 to 30 minutes. The tater tots should turn golden brown and crispy, while the cheese underneath bubbles deliciously, signaling the dish is ready.
  5. Let It Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This pause helps the layers settle, making it easier to cut and enjoy perfectly melty bites every time.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and creamier texture.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking meat to ensure proper browning and flavor.
  • Let the casserole rest before serving to achieve cleaner slices and settled flavors.
  • Use frozen tater tots straight from the freezer to maintain crispiness after baking.
  • Adjust seasoning levels by tasting the meat mixture before baking for personalized flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: casserole, tater tots, cheesy casserole, ground beef recipe, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/cheesy-cowboy-casserole-with-tater-tots/