Sure, let’s dive into the hearty and flavorful world of Ole! Tater Tots Casserole, a delightful dish that combines the crispy goodness of tater tots with the savory flavors of diced tomatoes, green chilies, and cheese, all baked to perfection in a cozy casserole. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting and satisfying on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ole! Tater Tots Casserole 🥔🧀
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 4 cups frozen Tater Tots
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons diced green chilies
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
-
Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and achieves that golden, bubbly perfection we all love.
-
Layer Tater Tots: Take a 1 1/2-quart shallow baking dish and arrange the frozen Tater Tots in an even layer at the bottom. This will serve as the delicious foundation of your casserole.
-
Prepare Tomato Mixture: In a bowl, mix together the diced tomatoes and oregano. The oregano adds a delightful herbaceous flavor that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes. Spoon this flavorful mixture over the layer of Tater Tots, ensuring even distribution across the dish.
-
Create Creamy Mixture: In another small bowl, combine the sour cream, milk, diced green chilies, and salt. The sour cream adds creaminess, while the green chilies provide a subtle kick of heat that elevates the dish. Stir everything together until well combined.
-
Layer Creamy Mixture: Once mixed, spoon the creamy mixture over the layer of tomatoes. This adds a rich and luscious texture to the casserole, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
-
Sprinkle with Cheese: Now, it’s time to add the pièce de résistance – the shredded cheddar cheese! Sprinkle the cheese evenly over the top of the casserole, covering all the delicious layers beneath. The cheese will melt and create a gooey, irresistible topping that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
-
Bake to Perfection: Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through. The tantalizing aroma that fills your kitchen will let you know it’s almost time to indulge in this mouthwatering masterpiece.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Once baked to golden perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, serve up generous portions of this comforting dish and watch as smiles light up the faces of your loved ones.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 261.6
- Fat Content: 21.3g
- Saturated Fat Content: 12.8g
- Cholesterol Content: 60.6mg
- Sodium Content: 523.5mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 9.5g
- Fiber Content: 1.8g
- Sugar Content: 6.6g
- Protein Content: 10.1g
Tips and Variations:
- Add Protein: For an extra hearty twist, consider adding cooked ground beef or shredded chicken to the creamy mixture before baking.
- Go Vegetarian: To make this dish vegetarian-friendly, simply omit the meat and enjoy the delicious flavors of the tomatoes, green chilies, and cheese.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of diced green chilies according to your spice preference. For a milder version, use less chilies, or for a spicier kick, add a few extra tablespoons.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or parsley over the finished casserole for a burst of vibrant color and freshness.
- Serve with Sides: Pair this indulgent casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal that satisfies both the taste buds and the soul.
With its simple preparation and irresistible flavors, Ole! Tater Tots Casserole is sure to become a family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to delight your taste buds with this comforting and delicious dish!
