meatless tater tot casserole recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best meatless tater tot casserole recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my family’s favorite meatless tater tot casserole recipe. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s a perfect combination of comforting and nutritious.

The idea of a tater tot casserole may seem unusual, but trust me, it’s a game-changer. The crispy tater tots on top give way to a creamy, cheesy filling that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

I’ve served this recipe at countless family gatherings, potlucks, and weeknight dinners, and it never fails to impress. My kids love helping me prepare the ingredients and assembling the casserole, making it a fun and engaging cooking experience for the whole family.

As an added bonus, this recipe is surprisingly healthy, with a good balance of protein, complex carbohydrates, and vegetables. The key to this dish is using high-quality ingredients and cooking techniques that bring out the best flavors in each component.

I’ve experimented with various variations over the years, but this basic recipe remains a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a new family favorite or a show-stopping side dish for your next dinner party, this meatless tater tot casserole is sure to become a staple in your household too.

I’ve found that this recipe freezes beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or last-minute meals when time is tight.

Meatless Tater Tot Casserole

4.9 from 1376 votes

A hearty and comforting casserole featuring a creamy mushroom and vegetable filling topped with crispy tater tots. This meatless version is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Filling

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup frozen peas
1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt

For the Topping

1 (32-ounce) package frozen tater tots
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2While the oven heats, heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
3Add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent.
4Stir in the minced garlic, sliced mushrooms, diced carrots, and celery, and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the mushrooms have released their liquid and begin to brown.
5Sprinkle the dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the vegetables and stir to combine.
6Add the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to coat the vegetables.
7Slowly pour in the vegetable broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
8Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
9Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the frozen peas and sour cream until well combined.
10Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
11Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the filling, covering it completely.
12If using, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots.
13Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy and the filling is bubbly around the edges.
14Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large oven-safe skillet or 9×13-inch baking dish
Large skillet
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 20mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 10g

📝Notes

For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based sour cream and omit the cheese or use a dairy-free shred. You can also add other vegetables like corn or green beans.

Watch Video Of How Meatless Tater Tot Casserole Works

This meatless tater tot casserole recipe is an all-around winner that works beautifully for both everyday meals and special occasions. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time, freezes well for future meals, and can be easily reheated in the oven or microwave when needed.

One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is its versatility – feel free to customize it with your favorite add-ins or leftovers to keep things interesting. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a satisfying main course, this meatless tater tot casserole is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Meatless Tater Tot Casserole

Q: What kind of potatoes are best for this recipe?

I like to use Russet or Idaho potatoes for their high starch content and dry texture.

Q: Can I use frozen tater tots instead of fresh?

While fresh tater tots are always preferred, frozen ones will work in a pinch.

Q: How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too soggy?

Make sure to pat the tater tots dry with paper towels before adding them to the casserole to prevent excess moisture from ruining the dish.

Q: Can I add other ingredients like vegetables or meats to customize the recipe?

Of course! Feel free to get creative with your favorite add-ins – just be mindful of cooking times and ingredient ratios.

Q: How do I store leftover casserole?

Avoid storing leftover casserole in an airtight container as it can lead to sogginess; instead, cover it loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate or freeze as needed.

Similar Posts