The aroma wafting from the oven as your Shepherd’s Pie Tater Tot Casserole bakes is nothing short of heavenly. Picture this: a warm, cheesy layer of seasoned meat and veggies, all topped with crispy golden tater tots that practically sing when you bite into them.

Remember those cozy evenings spent at Grandma’s house? She’d whip up her famous shepherd’s pie, filling the kitchen with warmth and laughter. This dish is your ticket to recreating those cherished memories while adding a playful twist that even kids will adore. Get ready for an unforgettable flavor adventure!

I once made this dish for a potluck, and my friends couldn’t stop raving about it—especially when they discovered the secret ingredient was pure love (and maybe a splash of Worcestershire sauce).

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
• Onions: Use yellow onions for sweetness; they’re the base of our savory filling.
• Carrots: Diced finely so they cook quickly and blend seamlessly into the filling.
• Frozen Peas: No need to thaw; just toss them in straight from the freezer for vibrant color.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds depth and richness to balance out the flavors perfectly.
• Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness in your casserole.
• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar brings extra creaminess and flavor.
• Tater Tots: The star of the show! Use frozen tater tots for convenience and crunch.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors in your dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and spray it lightly with nonstick cooking spray for easy cleanup.

Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, add diced onions and carrots. Sauté until they soften, about 5 minutes. The aroma will start filling your kitchen like a hug from Grandma.

Add Ground Beef and Seasonings: Toss in your ground beef along with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as you go—about 7-10 minutes should do.

Add Broth and Peas: Pour in beef broth and mix in frozen peas. Let simmer for another few minutes until everything melds together nicely—trust me; it’ll smell incredible!

Create the Layering Magic: Transfer your meat mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar generously on top; don’t be shy!

Top with Tater Tots: Now comes the fun part! Arrange tater tots over the cheese like little soldiers ready for battle. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.

Once it bubbles enticingly and turns golden brown on top, you know you’re ready to dig in!

Enjoy digging into this delightful combination of traditional shepherd’s pie flavors transformed into a fun casserole format! Your friends will be begging you to share this recipe—and you’ll have plenty of leftovers (if you’re lucky).

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning ground meat with onions and garlic, then layer in veggies before topping with tater tots. This ensures all flavors meld beautifully while keeping everything perfectly cooked.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the meat for turkey or lentils for a vegetarian version. Experimenting with different cheeses can also elevate the flavor profile of your casserole.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes to restore that crispy topping.

Sharing this recipe reminds me of family gatherings when everyone fought over the last piece. My cousin once declared it “the ultimate comfort food,” and I couldn’t agree more!

FAQ

Can I use frozen vegetables in Shepherd’s Pie Tater Tot Casserole?

Absolutely! Frozen veggies are convenient and save time without sacrificing flavor.

How can I make Shepherd’s Pie Tater Tot Casserole gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickening agent in the filling.

Can I prepare Shepherd’s Pie Tater Tot Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it beforehand and refrigerate until ready to bake!

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Shepherd’s Pie Tater Tot Casserole

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• Author: Ann Foster
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Shepherd’s Pie Tater Tot Casserole is a comforting twist on a classic dish, featuring layers of seasoned meat and veggies topped with crispy tater tots. A family favorite for any weeknight dinner!

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Ingredients

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• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 3 cups frozen tater tots
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onions and carrots until softened (about 5 minutes).
3. Add ground beef, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce; cook until browned (7-10 minutes).
4. Stir in beef broth and frozen peas; let simmer for a few minutes.
5. Spread the meat mixture evenly in the baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Arrange tater tots on top and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Comfort Food

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/6 of the casserole (approximately 240g)
• Calories: 430
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 65mg