Step-by-step recipe for making a delicious Tater Tot Casserole

 Tater Tot Casserole

Certainly! Tater Tot Casserole is a classic comfort dish that combines tater tots, ground meat, vegetables, and cheese. Here's a step-by-step recipe for making a delicious Tater Tot Casserole:

### Ingredients:

- 1 lb (about 450g) ground beef or turkey

- 1 small onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup

- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, etc.)

- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

- 1 lb (about 450g) frozen tater tots

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Optional toppings: chopped green onions, parsley

### Instructions:

1. **Preheat Oven:**

   - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

 Tater Tot Casserole

2. **Cook Ground Meat:**

   - In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium-high heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.

3. **Add Onion and Garlic:**

   - Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for a few minutes until the onion is softened.

4. **Season and Mix:**

   - Season the meat mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the condensed cream of mushroom soup and mix well.

5. **Add Mixed Vegetables:**

   - Add the frozen mixed vegetables to the skillet. Stir to combine, and cook for a few more minutes until the vegetables are heated through.

6. **Layer in Casserole Dish:**

   - Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.

7. **Cheese Layer:**

   - Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the meat and vegetables.

8. **Arrange Tater Tots:**

   - Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese. You can create rows or a pattern if you like.

9. **Bake:**

   - Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the tater tots are golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.

10. **Optional Broil:**

    - If you want the tater tots extra crispy, you can broil the casserole for a couple of minutes after baking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.

11. **Garnish and Serve:**

    - Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired, and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

12. **Serve Warm:**

    - Scoop out portions of the Tater Tot Casserole, and serve warm. Enjoy!

This Tater Tot Casserole is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for a comforting family meal. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite seasonings or additional toppings.