12/07/2024
Here’s a delicious and easy **Crockpot Tater Tot Casserole** recipe that you can set and forget while it cooks, resulting in a creamy, cheesy, and comforting meal.
# # # Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey, if preferred)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or use cream of chicken soup for variation)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (optional for a little heat)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or more if you like it extra cheesy)
- 1 package (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- Salt and pepper, to taste
# # # Instructions:
1. **Brown the Ground Beef:**
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion. Drain any excess grease, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. **Prepare the Casserole Mixture:**
- In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and diced tomatoes (if using). Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and mix well.
3. **Layer in the Crockpot:**
- Spray your Crockpot with non-stick cooking spray.
- Start by layering half of the frozen tater tots at the bottom of the Crockpot.
- Top with half of the cooked ground beef mixture.
- Repeat with another layer of tater tots and the remaining ground beef mixture.
4. **Cook:**
- Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours, or until the tater tots are fully cooked and golden.
5. **Add Cheese:**
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover and let it melt into the casserole.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:**
- Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, your Crockpot Tater Tot Casserole is ready to serve. Scoop out portions, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness.
# # # Variations:
- **Add veggies:** You can add frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn) for more color and nutrients.
- **Spicy:** Add a few dashes of hot sauce or use spicy sausage in place of the ground beef.
- **Vegan or vegetarian:** Use plant-based ground "beef" and vegan cheese for a vegetarian version.
This recipe is perfect for busy days or feeding a crowd. The Crockpot does all the hard work for you. Let me know how it turns out, or if you’d like any customizations.
