Lunch & Dinner

Tater Tot Hotdish – Easy Meals To Cook

Name: Tater Tot Hotdish – Easy Meals To Cook
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 24 ounces frozen Tater Tots; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 large yellow onion, finely diced; 2 cans condensed cream of mushroom soup; 2 pounds ground beef; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 1/2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper; 16 ounces mixed vegetables, frozen or canned

Kelly Blackford August 2, 2025

Servings: 6 Total Time: 1 hr Difficulty: Intermediate

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When it’s time to whip up a delicious tater tot hotdish, you might wonder what to serve alongside it. This dish stands firmly on its own, but a few items can really take your meal to the next level. Here are some pairings to consider:

1. A Crisp Green Salad: The crunch of fresh greens balances the rich, savory flavors of the hotdish. Mix arugula, spinach, and a bright vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

2. Garlic Bread: A slice of warm, buttery garlic bread complements the hearty nature of hotdish. It’s like the trusty sidekick that never fails to elevate the meal.

3. Fruit Salad: A sweet fruit salad can provide a refreshing palate cleanser. Use seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and melon to make it colorful and appealing.

What is Tater Tot Hotdish?

Tater tot hotdish is a beloved casserole from the Midwest, traditionally consisting of a ground meat base topped generously with tater tots. It’s a one-pan meal that combines protein, vegetables, and crispy, golden tater tots, all baked to perfection. Originating from Minnesota, it has earned a reputation for being a crowd-pleaser at potlucks and family dinners alike.

Why This Recipe Works

Several factors make this tater tot hotdish a fantastic dish to prepare. Allow me to highlight the main reasons.

1. Convenience: This dish is a one-pot wonder. With minimal prep time, it allows you to spend more time enjoying moments with family and less time in the kitchen.

2. Comforting Flavors: The combination of creamy mushroom soup, savory beef, and the crunch of tater tots creates a harmonious balance of flavors that warms the soul.

3. Versatility: You can customize this hotdish in so many ways, from the meat you choose to the vegetables you throw in. It accommodates various tastes, ensuring everyone is satisfied.

4. Kid-Friendly Appeal: Let’s face it, kids love tater tots. The crispy texture and fun shape make it an easy sell to little ones, and the hidden veggies make it a win for parents too.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish

Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:

24 ounces frozen Tater Tots
1 tablespoon butter (salted or unsalted, as preferred)
1 large yellow onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
2 (14-ounce) cans condensed cream of mushroom soup
2 pounds ground beef (choose your preferred fat ratio)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (adds warmth and savoriness)
1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt, plus more as needed
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (adds umami and depth)
1 ½ teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper, or to taste
16 ounces mixed vegetables, frozen or canned (such as corn, peas, green beans, and carrots)

How To Make This Tater Tot Hotdish Recipe?

Let’s turn our attention to the method of preparing this delightful dish. I assure you that it’s simpler than it seems.

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Make sure to break it up into small pieces with a spatula. The goal is to get that nice brown color for flavor development. Once cooked, drain excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion

In the same skillet, add the tablespoon of butter and let it melt. Toss in the finely diced yellow onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. This usually takes about 3–5 minutes. This step deepens the flavors.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, add the browned beef and sautéed onions. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, mixed vegetables, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. The mixture should be thick and hearty.

Step 4: Assemble the Hotdish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the beef mixture into a greased casserole dish, smoothing it into an even layer. Now it’s time for the pièce de résistance: the tater tots! Arrange them in a single layer on top of the beef mixture, covering it completely.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the casserole dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy. The bubbling edges will be a comforting sight, signaling that you’re on the right track.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. This dish is best enjoyed warm, but leftovers are just as tasty. Scoop out portions and savor the delightful blend of flavors.

Tips & Tricks

Here are some handy tips to elevate your hotdish game:

Use Frozen Veggies: This saves prep time and ensures they are consistently cooked. Just toss them in frozen!

Cheese It Up: Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top before baking for an added layer of flavor.

Spice it Up: Feel free to add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for some heat if that’s your style.

Make it Ahead: Prepare it a day in advance. Just cover the dish in the fridge, then pop it in the oven when you’re ready.

Store Leftovers Properly: Make sure to keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last about three to four days.

Nutrition Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition for one serving (assuming 8 servings):

Calories: 420
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 37g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 3g
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g

(These values may vary with ingredients and serving sizes, so it’s good to check specific brands for accuracy.)

How Do You Store The Leftovers?

Leftovers can be a lifesaver, turning a busy weeknight into an easy dinner. Store any remaining hotdish in an airtight container. It lasts for about three to four days in the refrigerator. If you’d like to keep them longer, consider freezing individual portions. Just make sure to label them so they don’t get lost in the freezer abyss.

What Sides Would Complement Tater Tot Hotdish Recipe?

Some sides enhance the meal brilliantly. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Coleslaw: The crisp texture of coleslaw contrasts beautifully with the warm, creamy hotdish. A tangy vinaigrette will add a refreshing element and balance richness.

2. Roasted Vegetables: An assortment of roasted seasonal veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots can provide a healthy, colorful accompaniment. Their natural sweetness will complement the savory dish.

3. Pickle Dish: A selection of pickles adds a crunchy, tangy bite that cuts through the dish’s creaminess. Try dill pickles, bread and butter pickles, or even pickled beets for some variety.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?

Life is unpredictable, and sometimes you may find yourself short on certain ingredients. Here are alternatives:

1. Ground Turkey or Chicken: Use ground turkey or chicken if you don’t have beef. It will result in a lighter dish without sacrificing flavor.

2. Cream of Chicken Soup: Swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken if someone in your household isn’t a fan of mushrooms.

3. Fresh Veggies: If you have fresh veggies on hand, feel free to use them instead of frozen. Just be sure to chop them finely and sauté them alongside the onions.

4. Sweet Potato Tater Tots: Try using sweet potato tater tots for a unique twist. They add a slight sweetness that can balance the savory elements.

Conclusion

Tater tot hotdish is more than just a meal. It’s a family staple that brings people together and satisfies even the pickiest eaters. Whether you serve it at a gathering or enjoy it as a weeknight meal, this cheesy, hearty dish is sure to be a hit.

With its versatility and ease of preparation, it’s no wonder it holds a special place in so many hearts. So grab those tater tots and let the good times roll; comfort food awaits!

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Tater Tot Hotdish – Easy Meals To Cook

Author: Kelly Blackford Cuisine: American Courses: Lunch & Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 55 mins Total Time 1 hr

Servings: 6 Calories: 420 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Let’s journey back to my childhood, where family gatherings meant one thing: hotdish. Yes, tater tot hotdish to be precise. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug, pulling you back to simpler times.

Every bite tells a story of community, comfort, and shared laughs around the table. But what exactly is this dish that has captured my heart? Let’s delve into this culinary delight that satisfies both hunger and nostalgia.