Classic Tater Tot Hotdish Recipe

Tater Tot Hotdish is a classic Midwestern staple. Whether as a main or side, everyone at the table will be satisfied. Great for Thanksgiving or any time!

Original post: February 2016 | Updated: November 2020

Are you ready for Thanksgiving? Tell me about the spread you’re making this year! One of the dishes that always, and I mean ALWAYS, makes it to our Thanksgiving table is Tater Tot Hotdish. Or Tater Tot Casserole, if that’s more up your alley.

Here in Minnesota we go with Hotdish. Or more accurately, hahhhht-dish. This classic hotdish is typically served at Thanksgiving, yes, but it is a perfect addition to any dinner table, any time of the year.

HOW TO MAKE EASY TATER TOT HOTDISH

Prep for this Tater Tot Hotdish is minimal. There is no need to pre-cook veggies or tater tots. Easy peasy! This classic comfort food is going to make your house smell good and fill everyone up!

STEP 1

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add onion and cook, stirring, until tender and fragrant, about 3 minutes.

Add meat to the pan and brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain grease from pan and add salt and pepper to onions and beef.

STEP 2

Add green beans, cream of mushroom soup, corn, ketchup and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Cook over medium heat for 5 minutes and pour in an even layer into prepared casserole dish.

STEP 3

Once the meat has been completely topped with a layer of tater tots (do this in a single layer), sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over top.

Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until tater tots are golden brown and the cheddar cheese is melted.

RECIPE NOTES: TATER TOT HOTDISH

• To add a bit of spice to the dish, add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the beef onion mixture.
• Replace the corn and beans with 2 cups of frozen mixed vegetables, if desired.
• Cream of chicken or cream of celery soup can replace cream of mushroom!
• 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder would be a great addition to the beef mixture.
• Ground turkey or sausage would be excellent replacement options for ground beef or skip the meat altogether to make it a meatless dish!
• Frozen tater tots do not need to be thawed before adding them to the baking pan. Throw them in straight from the freezer!

WHAT IS HOTDISH?

Maybe you’re not from Minnesota (lovingly referred to as Minnesnowta!) and the word hotdish is confusing. But casserole is more familiar. Hotdish is a one-pot meal packed with a protein and potato (or some sort of starch), veggies and a gravy or sauce.

WHY IS HOTDISH SO POPULAR?

Hotdish is a great option because it’s very affordable. Use frozen, canned or fresh veggies. Layer the meat, potatoes and veggies so you don’t spend a lot on any layer. Pack a lot of food into one pot. Also, it’s great for having leftovers or enough to feed a great big group!

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO FREEZE CASSEROLES

This hotdish will stay fresh in the fridge store in an air-tight container for 5 days. If you want to freeze for later enjoyment, you have a couple options:

Freeze unbaked – Assemble the layers as directed in an aluminum baking pan and wrap tightly in foil. Place into freezer bags and freeze for 3-4 months.

When you are ready to enjoy the casserole, thaw completely (preferably in the fridge overnight) and bake as directed.

Freeze baked – Assemble the layers and bake as directed in an aluminum baking pan. Let the casserole cool completely and wrap tightly in foil. Place into resealable freezer bags and freeze for 3-4 months.

When you are ready to enjoy the casserole, let it thaw completely (preferably in the fridge overnight). Reheat in a 250 degree F oven uncovered for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

DELICIOUS THANKSGIVING SIDE DISH RECIPES

• This is my Mom’s Mashed Potatoes recipe and it is the BEST ever. Great with any main dish, any time of year. You’ll never need another mashed potato recipe again!
• This is the BEST Homemade Cranberry Sauce! It is super easy to make and way surpasses the canned version in flavor. Be sure to use whole berries to your sauce to make this a delicious side dish for your Thanksgiving or holiday table!
• Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes are creamy, smooth, delicious and easy to prepare. No boiling or saucepan/stovetop cleaning required with this side dish.
• This Classic Sweet Potato Casserole is great on your Thanksgiving table and also a perfect side dish that can be enjoyed any time of the year.
• This is the Best Green Bean Casserole for your table! It is a traditional holiday staple, yes, but also great any time of the year as a delicious side dish.
• This delicious Crockpot Stuffing with Leeks and Sausage is made easier in a slow cooker! The addition of leeks and sausage makes it unique and delicious. Don’t limit this to Thanksgiving fare.
• If you really love to have low carb options available, try this Cauliflower Stuffing recipe! It’s an easy, healthy side dish for your next holiday meal! Cauliflower stuffing is a low carb, gluten free recipe that does not lack in flavor.