This iconic whiskey is a "Jack of all trades" when it comes to cooking. Toss it in some pasta, as a savory dipping sauce, and even bake it into something sweet.
Meatless Tater Tot Casserole
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Tater tot casserole is an iconic dish in the midwest. This version nixes the ground beef that's in the original version and adds a crunchy cornflake topping. You can easily change things up by using other flavored cream soup (like cream of mushroom) and varying the cheese (Monterey jack is good in this!). You can also add in some veggies like peas, corn, or carrots if desired. If you want to make it ahead of time don't thaw the tater tots. Assemble up to the cornflake topping and then refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, mix the cornflakes with the butter and proceed with the recipe.
serves/makes:
ready in:
30-60 minutes
30-60 minutes
6 reviews
ingredients
2 pounds frozen tater tots, thawed
1 can (10 ounce size) cream soup, undiluted (cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or cream of chicken)
1 cup finely chopped onion
1 container (16 ounce size) sour cream
8 ounces shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
1 dash garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
1/2 cup butter, softened
3 cups lightly crushed cornflakes cereal
1/2 cup butter, melted
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Combine the tater tots, cream soup, chopped onion, sour cream, Cheddar cheese, garlic powder, seasoned salt, and softened butter in a large bowl. Mix gently until fully combined.
Pour the tater tot mixture into the prepared baking dish.
In another bowl, combine the cornflakes and melted butter until the cereal is well coated. Spread the cornflake mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. Sprinkle the Parmesan over the top.
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the casserole is browned and bubbly in the middle.
Remove the casserole from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
recipe tips
For a healthier version, opt for low-fat sour cream and cheese, and try using a cream soup with reduced sodium or fat.
If you prefer a crunchier topping, add the cornflake mixture just before the final 15 minutes of baking.
Try various types of cheese like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or a blend.
For a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapenos to the mixture.
This casserole is a great make-ahead dish for busy days; just prepare, refrigerate, and bake when needed.
For extra flavor, saute the chopped onion before adding it to the casserole.
Add leftover vegetables or proteins to enhance the dish.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set up.
For more texture, try mixing in some cooked quinoa or rice along with the other ingredients.
common recipe questions
Can I use some other kind of potatoes instead of frozen tater tots?
Yes, you can use diced or grated fresh potatoes, but they may require pre-cooking to make sure they're fully cooked in the casserole. You can also use other frozen potatoes such as potato wedges or something similar.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
You can include cooked ground beef, turkey, or chicken if you prefer a non-vegetarian version. Add the cooked protein to the soup mixture.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
What if I can't find cornflakes?
If cornflakes are unavailable, you can substitute with crushed crackers, panko bread crumbs, or even breadcrumbs mixed with some butter for crunch.
Can I add more vegetables to this casserole?
Frozen peas, corn, diced carrots, or bell peppers can be added.
Can the casserole be made ahead of time?
You can assemble the casserole up to the cornflake topping and refrigerate overnight. Just add the topping just before baking.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when it's browned on top, bubbly, and when a knife inserted in the center comes out hot.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I reheat the casserole?
Yes, reheat in an oven at 350 degrees F until heated through, or in the microwave, though the oven will keep the topping crispier.
tools needed
Large Mixing Bowl: To combine the tater tots, cream soup, chopped onion, sour cream, Cheddar cheese, garlic powder, seasoned salt, and softened butter until fully mixed.
9x13-inch Baking Dish: Greased and ready to hold the tater tot casserole while it bakes.
Mixing Spoon or Spatula: For gently mixing the tater tot mixture and spreading it evenly in the baking dish.
Small Bowl: Used to combine the crushed cornflakes with melted butter before spreading them over the casserole for a crispy topping.
Grater: To grate the Parmesan cheese to sprinkle on top of the cornflake mixture.
what goes with it?
House Salad: the fresh crunch of a simple house salad pairs well with the creamy, cheesy goodness of the tater tot casserole. It adds a lightness to balance out the richness of the dish.
Garlic Green Beans: the garlicky flavor of green beans will provide a nice contrast to the creamy and savory flavors of the casserole. Plus, it's a sneaky way to add some veggies to your meal.
Strawberry Spinach Salad: the sweetness of the strawberries in a spinach salad will provide a refreshing and fruity contrast to the savory casserole. It's a perfect combination of flavors.
Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower: Serve up some spicy buffalo cauliflower on the side for a fun twist. The heat from the buffalo sauce will kick things up a notch and complement the cheesiness of the casserole.
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Roast some garlic parmesan asparagus to add a touch of nutty parmesan and garlic flavors.
beverage pairings
Wine Pairings
Chardonnay: Go for a buttery, oaked Chardonnay. It's got the creaminess and richness that complements the sour cream and cheese in your casserole while matching the comfort food vibe. Look for one with hints of vanilla and toasty oak.
Sauvignon Blanc: A zesty, crisp Sauvignon Blanc can cut through the richness of the casserole. It has citrusy notes that can lighten up the heavier elements while enhancing the overall flavor. Try to find one with herbaceous notes.
Pinot Grigio: With its light body and refreshing acidity, a Pinot Grigio can provide a nice contrast to the cheesy richness and crunchy cornflake topping. Look for one that's mildly fruity and zippy.
Other Alcohol Pairings
Pale Ale: A medium-bodied Pale Ale, with its hoppy and slightly fruity notes, can play well with the savory flavors of the casserole.
Light Beer: A straightforward, easy-drinking light lager or pilsner works well here. Its crispness won't overpower the dish.
Moscow Mule: This moscow mule cocktail, made with vodka, ginger beer, and lime, can add a zesty kick and a splash of sweetness.
Non-Alcoholic Pairings
Iced Tea: Unsweetened iced tea can provide a refreshing dimension next to the casserole.
Herbal Tea: A floral or herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, can keep things light and add an aromatic touch.
Apple Juice: A nice, crisp apple juice can add a fruity sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory flavors of the casserole. Choose one that's 100% juice for a good balance of sweetness without being too sugary.
nutrition data
Nutritional data has not been calculated yet.
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reviews & comments
November 18, 2022
This is my absolutely favorite tater tot casserole ever! No ground beef. My kids loved this growing up & still ask for it as adults. The picture with the recipe is not what it really looks like, so I almost skipped over this in looking for it. If I remember I will post a finished pic of it tomorrow. My daughter made a special request for it for my grandson's 2nd birthday.
April 18, 2021
I made this for a party last night. People raved about it! They loved the crisp top. When I stirred it, the tots broke apart, but it did not affect the taste, will make again!!! A super good comfort food :)
June 9, 2020
Very good! I added shredded cheddar on top 1/2 way through baking.
March 23, 2018
It was very good and the kids LOVED it! I made it just as the recipe, no changes or substitutions. The only thing I will say is that mine was done at 39 minutes and probably would have burned before 45 + minutes.... I think b/c I used the shredded parm.. if it had been mozz or cheddar it wouldn't have darkened so quickly. But really - no complaints.. it's tasty and my kids are happy... ! :)
May 10, 2017
Just what I was looking for! I was thinking I'd dreamed this recipe because I couldn't find it ANYWHERE!! Thanks so much. I love simple, hearty recipes.
November 15, 2016
This was good. I didn't use the corn flake topping though as I didn't have any on hand I just topped the dish with cheese and baked it.