Description
Shepherd’s Pie Tater Tot Casserole combines seasoned ground beef, corn, and creamy mashed potatoes, topped with crispy tater tots and melted cheese. This hearty dish offers a comforting twist on the classic shepherd’s pie, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb lean ground beef or ground turkey: This forms the hearty base of the dish, providing essential protein and rich flavor.
- 1 cup diced yellow onions: Adds sweetness and depth to the filling, complementing the savory elements.
- 12 oz canned corn: Offers a pop of color and sweetness, enhancing the overall texture of the meal.
- ½ cup water: To ensure the mixture reaches the desired consistency.
- 0.87 oz beef gravy mix: Contributes umami flavor and helps to bind the filling together.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances the flavors of the ingredients.
- ½ tsp pepper: Adds a subtle kick to the mixture.
- ½ tbsp onion powder: Intensifies the onion flavor in the filling.
- ½ tbsp garlic powder: Provides added depth and richness to the dish.
For the mashed potatoes, you will need:
- 1 ½ cups water: Used to cook the instant mashed potatoes.
- 2 tbsp margarine or butter: Adds richness and creaminess to the mashed potatoes.
- 4 oz instant mashed potato mix: The convenience of instant mashed potatoes provides a creamy topping.
- ½ cup milk: Helps make the mashed potatoes fluffy and smooth.
For the topping, gather:
- 28 oz frozen tater tots: The star of the show, providing a delightful crunch on top.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend: Adds creaminess and a cheesy finish; the perfect way to bring everything together.
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Transfer the beef mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- 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.
- Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the beef mixture in the baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Arrange 28 oz frozen tater tots in a single layer over the mashed potatoes, covering the entire surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
- 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.
- 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! 🤤❤️