Are you craving a comfort food that's so deliciously easy, you might just want to take a nap after eating it? Look no further than the "Taking a Nap Casserole" - the ultimate weeknight dinner that combines hearty ground beef, creamy mushroom sauce, and crispy tater tots into one irresistible dish! This crowd-pleasing casserole is not just a meal; it's a culinary hug that will have your family begging for seconds and fighting over the last crispy tater tot.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 package tater tots
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook until no pink remains and the meat is fully cooked, approximately 7-8 minutes.
- Drain excess fat from the ground beef using a colander, then return the meat to the skillet.
- Add the cream of mushroom soup to the ground beef, stirring to combine and create a creamy mixture.
- Mix in the frozen mixed vegetables, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the meat and soup mixture.
- Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the beef and vegetable layer.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese, covering the entire casserole surface.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.
- Serve hot and enjoy your "Taking a Nap Casserole" - perfect for a comforting meal that's easy to prepare.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, choose lean ground beef (80/20 ratio) to ensure the casserole isn't too greasy.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to help the layers set and make serving easier.
- Feel free to customize your vegetables - swap frozen mixed veggies with your family's favorites.
- Want extra crispiness? Broil the tater tots for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking for a golden-brown finish.
- Prep this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate before baking - perfect for busy weeknights!
- Serve with a simple side salad to balance the hearty main dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 365kcal
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 52mg
