SOUR CREAM AND ONION TATER TOT CASSEROLE

A fresh twist on an old family favorite that even the kids will gobble up. Out of desperation from having the same old dish week after week, I set about creating a new flavor profile for my standby dinner—Tater Tot casserole. Going heavy on onions and including Hood sour cream makes this dish creamy and delicious, perfect for a hectic weeknight or leisurely weekend dinner. This post is brought to you as part of my partnership with Hood on the Hood Meal Makeover Campaign. Opinions are my own.

Can’t get enough of casseroles? Try some of these! Game Changing Ham and Cheese Tater Tot Casserole, Southwestern Shepherd’s Pie Recipe, Mini Breakfast Casserole, and Vanilla Maple French Toast Casserole.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sour Cream and Onion Tater Tot Casserole is a comforting dish that melds creamy, savory flavors with the satisfying crunch of Tater Tots. It’s a versatile meal that’s perfect for the whole family, offering a delicious twist on classic comfort food with the addition of Hood sour cream and plenty of onions.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13 baking pan
• Large skillet
• Large mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

• 1 lb. ground beef (ground turkey or veggie crumbles for a vegetarian option)
• 1 32 oz. package Tater Tots
• ¾ cup Hood sour cream (use light for fewer calories)
• ¼ cup milk (use low-fat or skim for fewer calories)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 ½ cup shredded Colby Jack cheese
• 1 ½ tsp garlic salt
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2-3 tsps. oil mix (90% vegetable oil, 10% olive oil)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Thaw the Tater Tots.
2. Finely dice the onion. If your kids don’t enjoy the texture of onions, mince them to blend them seamlessly into the dish.
3. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 baking pan.
4. Heat the oil mix in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the onions until they begin to become translucent.
5. Add the ground beef to the pan and cook until fully browned, draining excess liquid if necessary.
6. In a large bowl, combine the Tater Tots, cooked ground beef, sour cream, milk, chicken broth, shredded cheese, garlic salt, and sautéed onion. Stir well to combine.
7. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and sprinkle with additional cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
9. Allow the casserole to sit for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips for Success

• For added flavor, try using a mix of cheeses such as cheddar and mozzarella.
• Ensure your Tater Tots are fully thawed to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.

Additional Tips and Variations

• For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Mix in some cooked bacon bits for an extra savory touch.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This casserole is comforting and hearty, providing a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. For those watching calories, use light sour cream and low-fat milk.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.

What can I serve with this casserole? A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables pair well with this dish.

Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This Sour Cream and Onion Tater Tot Casserole is a delightful twist on a classic that you and your family are sure to love. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it a hit for any meal. Give this recipe a try and don’t forget to share your experiences in the comments below. Enjoy!