Tater Tot Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This recipe combines crispy tater tots, savory bacon, and a rich cheese sauce, creating a delicious casserole that everyone will love. Follow this step-by-step guide to make a mouthwatering Tater Tot Casserole.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Casserole:
- 8 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 cup chopped yellow onion
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1¼ cups milk plus 2 tablespoons, divided
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- ¾ cup sour cream, divided
- 1 cup chopped scallions, divided
- 1 32 oz package frozen tater tots, divided
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- Pinch of kosher salt and pepper
Step-by-Step Directions
Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook Bacon: Add the chopped bacon to a Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until crispy, about 10 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Cook Onions: Discard all but 2 tablespoons of bacon grease from the pan (reserve the extra for another use). Add the chopped onion to the bacon grease in the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes.
Make the Cheese Sauce
- Add Butter and Flour: Add the butter to the pan with the onions and let it melt. Stir in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes.
- Add Milk: Gradually stir in 1¼ cups of milk until combined. Remove the pan from heat.
- Add Cheese and Sour Cream: Stir in 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, ½ cup of sour cream, and ½ cup of chopped scallions until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
Assemble the Casserole
- Combine with Tater Tots: Stir in half of the frozen tater tots into the cheese mixture. Transfer the mixture to a 13×9-inch baking dish.
- Top the Casserole: Sprinkle the remaining tater tots, cooked bacon, and 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
Bake
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven until bubbly and golden brown, about 35 minutes. Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes.
Prepare the Topping
- Make Ranch Drizzle: In a small bowl, stir together the remaining ¼ cup of sour cream, 2 tablespoons of milk, chopped chives, chopped dill, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth.
Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of chopped scallions over the casserole. Drizzle with the homemade ranch dressing before serving.
Tips and Variations
- Cheese Variations: Try using different types of cheese such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or a cheese blend for a unique flavor.
- Add Veggies: For a more nutritious casserole, add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach to the cheese mixture.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature and bake as directed.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Tater Tot Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
Yes, you can use diced fresh potatoes. Par-cook them by boiling for a few minutes before adding them to the casserole to ensure they cook through.
Can I freeze Tater Tot Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked casserole. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
How do I prevent the casserole from being too greasy?
Make sure to discard excess bacon grease and use only the recommended amount. You can also blot the bacon with a paper towel to remove excess grease before adding it to the casserole.
What can I serve with Tater Tot Casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or a side of coleslaw for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This Tater Tot Casserole is a delicious and easy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy cheese sauce, crispy bacon, and golden tater tots, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone. Follow these simple steps to make a comforting and satisfying meal that your family will love.