Cheesy Tater Tots Casserole 🧀🥔🥓
Description
Indulge in the irresistible comfort of our Cheesy Tater Tots Casserole! Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend treat, this savory dish brings together the creamy goodness of sour cream, the bold flavors of sharp cheddar cheese, and the crispy perfection of bacon bits, all nestled atop a bed of golden tater tots. Each bite is a symphony of flavors and textures, making it a surefire crowd-pleaser for gatherings or a comforting family meal. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time. Whether you’re a potato lover, a cheese enthusiast, or simply craving something hearty and delicious, this Cheesy Tater Tots Casserole is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 1051.2
- Fat: 82.7g
- Saturated Fat: 44.3g
- Cholesterol: 158.1mg
- Sodium: 2028.5mg
- Carbohydrates: 59.1g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 1.5g
- Protein: 22.5g
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter 🧈
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion 🧅
- 1/4 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded 🧀
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon salt 🧂
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 🌶️
- 1 cup diced ham 🍖
- 1/2 cup bacon bits 🥓
- 1/4 cup diced green pepper 🫑
- Tater tots, enough to cover the bottom of the casserole dish
- Additional butter for greasing the casserole dish
Instructions
| Step | Instruction |
|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). |
| 2 | In a mixing bowl, combine the diced ham, bacon bits, diced green pepper, finely chopped onion, sour cream, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. |
| 3 | Generously grease a casserole dish with butter to prevent sticking. |
| 4 | Arrange a layer of tater tots on the bottom of the greased casserole dish, creating an even base. |
| 5 | Pour the ham and sour cream mixture over the tater tots, spreading it out evenly to cover the surface. |
| 6 | Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top of the ham mixture, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. |
| 7 | Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the cheese to melt and bubble. |
| 8 | After 30 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle additional cheese over the top for an extra cheesy finish. |
| 9 | Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and the edges are crispy. |
| 10 | Once baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. |
| 11 | Serve hot, scooping out generous portions of this cheesy delight onto plates, and enjoy the creamy, savory goodness with your loved ones! |
Tips and Variations
- Cheese Galore: Experiment with different types of cheese to customize the flavor profile of your casserole. Gouda, mozzarella, or even pepper jack can add unique twists to this classic dish.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the ham and bacon bits for a delicious vegetarian version of this casserole. Simply add more vegetables or substitute with vegetarian alternatives like meatless bacon or tofu.
- Extra Crispy: For an extra crispy texture, broil the casserole for a few minutes at the end of the baking time until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests without the stress of last-minute meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this Cheesy Tater Tots Casserole as a hearty main dish alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- Pair it with your favorite dipping sauces such as ketchup, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing for an extra burst of flavor.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness before serving.
Indulge in the irresistible comfort of our Cheesy Tater Tots Casserole for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. With its creamy, cheesy goodness and hearty ingredients, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
