Recipe Card
Shepherd’s Pie Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 lblean ground beef or ground turkey: This forms the hearty base of the dish (providing essential protein and rich flavor.)
- 1 cupdiced yellow onions: Adds sweetness and depth to the filling (complementing the savory elements.)
- 12 ozcanned corn: Offers a pop of color and sweetness (enhancing the overall texture of the meal.)
- ½ cupwater: To ensure the mixture reaches the desired consistency.
- 0.87 ozbeef gravy mix: Contributes umami flavor and helps to bind the filling together.
- ½ tspsalt: Enhances the flavors of the ingredients.
- ½ tsppepper: Adds a subtle kick to the mixture.
- ½ tbsponion powder: Intensifies the onion flavor in the filling.
- ½ tbspgarlic powder: Provides added depth and richness to the dish.
- 1 ½ cupswater: Used to cook the instant mashed potatoes.
- 2 tbspmargarine or butter: Adds richness and creaminess to the mashed potatoes.
- 4 ozinstant mashed potato mix: The convenience of instant mashed potatoes provides a creamy topping.
- ½ cupmilk: Helps make the mashed potatoes fluffy and smooth.
- 28 ozfrozen tater tots: The star of the show (providing a delightful crunch on top.)
- 2 cupsshredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend: Adds creaminess and a cheesy finish; the perfect way to bring everything together.
Instructions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 425°F. In a large sauté pan over medium-high heat, add a dab of margarine or butter. Once melted, add 1 lb of ground beef (or ground turkey), breaking it apart as it cooks.
- 2
Once the beef starts to brown (about 5-7 minutes), add 1 cup diced yellow onions. Stir and continue cooking until the onions are soft and the beef is fully cooked.
- 3
Pour in the 12 oz canned corn (do not drain) into the pan. Stir well to incorporate. Then add ½ cup water, 0.87 oz beef gravy mix, ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp pepper, ½ tbsp onion powder, and ½ tbsp garlic powder. Stir until all ingredients are well combined and heated through.
- 4
Transfer the beef mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- 5
In a medium saucepan, bring 1 ½ cups water and 2 tbsp margarine to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in 4 oz instant mashed potato mix and ½ cup milk. Let sit for 1 minute, then stir until the potatoes are creamy and smooth.
- 6
Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the beef mixture in the baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- 7
Arrange 28 oz frozen tater tots in a single layer over the mashed potatoes, covering the entire surface.
- 8
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
- 9
Remove from the oven and sprinkle 2 cups shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 4-6 minutes, until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.
- 10
Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the layers to settle, making it easier to slice and serve. Enjoy your delicious creation! 🤤❤️