Classic Tater Tot Hotdish Recipe: A Cozy Midwestern Comfort Food Favorite
If you’ve ever spent a snowy evening in the American Midwest, you’ve likely experienced the magic of a bubbling hotdish fresh from the oven. Among the many varieties, Tater Tot Hotdish stands out as a beloved classic — warm, crispy, creamy, and satisfying. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a tradition passed down through generations.
In this detailed guide, you’ll learn how to make the best tater tot hotdish from scratch, with tips for customization, storage, and serving suggestions.
What Is a Tater Tot Hotdish?
A tater tot hotdish (sometimes called a casserole) is a hearty, one-pan dish commonly made with ground beef, frozen vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheese, and a layer of tater tots on top. It’s baked until golden and crispy — a perfect mix of crunchy, creamy, and savory in every bite.
It originated in the upper Midwest — especially in Minnesota — and has become a comfort food staple across the U.S.
Ingredients
You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Mix the Filling
Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, frozen vegetables, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Let the mixture simmer for 3–5 minutes until heated through.
4. Assemble the Hotdish
Transfer the beef mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar evenly over the top.
5. Add Tater Tots
Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single, even layer over the cheese.
6. Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
7. Cool and Serve
Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm, ideally with a side salad or buttered dinner rolls.
Tips and Variations:
- For Extra Flavor: Add Worcestershire sauce, a dash of hot sauce, or cooked bacon bits to the beef mixture.
- Swap the Soup: You can use cream of chicken or celery instead of mushroom if you prefer a different flavor.
- Make It Vegetarian: Use plant-based ground meat and cream of mushroom soup made with vegetable broth.
- Spice It Up: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or use pepper jack cheese for some heat.
- Add a Crunch: Sprinkle crushed fried onions or breadcrumbs on top during the last 5–10 minutes of baking.
Storage and Reheating:
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked or uncooked hotdish for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual servings.
Nutritional Estimate (Per Serving, 6 servings):
- Calories: 500–600
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Calcium and Iron: High
Why We Love This Dish
Tater Tot Hotdish isn’t just about taste — it’s about comfort. It brings families together, fills the kitchen with warmth, and leaves everyone full and happy. Whether it’s a Sunday dinner, a potluck, or a weeknight meal, this recipe delivers on all fronts.