Shepherd’s Pie Tater Tot Casserole

This Shepherd’s Pie Tater Tot Casserole combines the best of comfort food! Savory beef, tender vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, and crispy tater tots make this dish a family favorite that everyone will love!

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or mixed vegetables)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup beef broth
1/2 tsp thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups mashed potatoes (leftovers or freshly made)
3 cups frozen tater tots
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:

Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

Cook the beef mixture: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until the onions are softened and the beef is fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

Add the vegetables and sauce: Stir in the frozen peas and carrots, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes until well combined.

Assemble the casserole: Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the beef mixture in the skillet, or transfer everything to the prepared casserole dish first, then top with mashed potatoes.

Layer with tater tots: Arrange the tater tots in an even layer over the mashed potatoes. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving, then dig in and enjoy the comforting flavors of Shepherd’s Pie with a crispy twist!