Say hello to your new weeknight favorite: Smoky Tater Tot Casserole. Combining classic comfort food vibes with a smoky twist, this dish is perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. With crispy tater tots on top and a savory filling beneath, it's both easy and satisfying.
Ground beef forms the hearty base of the casserole, providing flavor and protein. Bacon adds a smoky, crispy element that enhances the dish's overall taste. Onion and garlic bring depth and a slight sweetness once sautéed. Cream of mushroom soup acts as the creamy binder, while sour cream adds tang and richness. Sharp cheddar cheese gives a sharp, cheesy finish, melting into gooey perfection. Tater tots are the crispy crown, providing texture and a fun twist. A sprinkle of smoked paprika and black pepper rounds out the flavors, and a touch of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness at the end.
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables on the side. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside steamed broccoli or green beans. A cold beer or a glass of crisp white wine complements the smoky flavors beautifully.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that's warming up, grab a large skillet and place it over medium heat. Toss in your chopped bacon and let it cook until it's perfectly crispy. Once done, remove the bacon and drain the excess fat, but keep about a tablespoon in the skillet — that’s going to infuse some serious flavor into the next steps.
Next, add your ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks, ensuring it browns evenly. Once it's no longer pink, throw in your chopped onion and minced garlic. Let them sauté until they’re soft and fragrant, which should take about five minutes or so.
Now, it's time to get creamy. Stir in your can of cream of mushroom soup, followed by the sour cream. Mix everything together until well combined, then sprinkle in half of your shredded cheddar cheese. Season with smoked paprika and black pepper, stirring until the mixture is nice and uniform.
Transfer this savory goodness to a 9x13 inch baking dish, smoothing it out into an even layer. Now for the fun part — arrange your frozen tater tots over the top, creating a neat, even layer. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and the crispy bacon over the tots for an extra layer of flavor.
Pop your casserole into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 40 to 45 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy. Once out of the oven, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a fresh finish.
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