How Long Do You Cook Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef for a Perfect BBQ
Written By James Morgan
If you're a BBQ enthusiast looking for a tasty and filling dish to add to your grilling menu, look no further than tater tot casserole with ground beef. This dish combines the best of both worlds: the hearty and savory flavor of ground beef and the crispy, golden goodness of tater tots. But how long do you cook tater tot casserole with ground beef to make it just right? In this guide, we'll take you through everything you need to know, from preparation to cooking times, to ensure your casserole is a hit at your next BBQ.
Ingredients Youll Need
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 bag of frozen tater tots
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparing the Casserole
Before you start cooking, you'll need to prepare your ingredients. Begin by preheating your grill or oven to 375F (190C). Then, brown the ground beef in a skillet, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess grease and transfer the beef to a mixing bowl. Add the can of cream of mushroom soup and the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assembling the Casserole
To assemble the casserole, spread the beef mixture evenly in the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the beef mixture. If you're grilling, place the dish on the grill grates and close the lid. If you're baking, place the dish in the preheated oven.
Cooking Times
The key to a perfect tater tot casserole is cooking it long enough for the tater tots to become crispy and golden. On the grill, this will typically take about 25-30 minutes. If you're baking it in the oven, it may take slightly longer, around 35-40 minutes. In both cases, you'll want to cook the casserole until the tater tots are crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Checking for Doneness
To check if your casserole is done, simply insert a fork into the tater tots. They should be crispy and golden on the outside and cooked all the way through. The cheese should be melted and bubbly, with no remaining cold spots. If the tater tots need more time, continue cooking in 5-minute increments until they reach the desired level of crispiness.
Tips for the Perfect Casserole
- Use high-quality ground beef: The quality of your ground beef can make a big difference in the flavor of your casserole. Look for lean ground beef with a good balance of fat for the best results.
- Dont skimp on the cheese: Cheese adds a creamy, savory element to the casserole. Use a good-quality cheddar for the best flavor.
- For extra flavor, add vegetables: If you want to add some extra nutrition and flavor to your casserole, consider mixing in some frozen vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans.
- Get creative with seasonings: Don't be afraid to experiment with different spices and seasonings to give your casserole a unique flavor profile.
FAQs
What type of ground beef should I use?
It's best to use lean ground beef for casseroles, as it provides a good balance of fat and flavor without making the dish too greasy.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Yes! Adding frozen vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans can add extra flavor and nutrition to your casserole.
How can I make the tater tots extra crispy?
For extra crispy tater tots, you can increase the grill or oven temperature during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Be sure to keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
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To explore more grilling recipes and tips, check out How to Grill Veggies and Grill Brussel Sprouts on our blog. For more comforting casserole recipes, visit Delish.
