Shepherd’s Pie Tater Tot Casserole

Get ready for a cozy, comfort-food favorite with a fun twist! This Shepherd’s Pie Tater Tot Casserole is a delicious mashup of classic shepherd’s pie and the crispy joy of tater tots. It’s layered with seasoned ground beef, creamy mashed potatoes, crispy tots, and a melty cheese topping. Perfect for busy weeknights or a family-friendly meal!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole combines everything you love about shepherd’s pie with a crispy, cheesy topping. The beef layer is rich and savory, while the fluffy mashed potatoes add creaminess, and the tater tots on top provide a perfect crunch. It’s an all-in-one comfort meal that’s sure to satisfy!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Beef Layer

• Lean Ground Beef: 1 lb – Provides the hearty base of the casserole.
• Yellow Onions: 1 cup, diced – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Canned Corn: 12 oz, undrained – Brings a touch of sweetness and texture.
• Water: 1/2 cup – Helps create the gravy.
• Beef Gravy Mix: 0.87 oz packet – Gives the beef layer a rich, savory flavor.
• Seasonings:
  • Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Onion Powder: 1/2 tablespoon
  • Garlic Powder: 1/2 tablespoon

For the Mashed Potatoes

• Water: 1 1/2 cups
• Margarine: 2 tablespoons – Adds creaminess.
• Instant Mashed Potato Mix: 4 oz – Quick and easy way to add fluffy mashed potatoes.
• Milk: 1/2 cup – For creaminess in the mashed potatoes.

For the Topping

• Frozen Tater Tots: 28 oz – Crispy topping for the casserole.
• Shredded Mozzarella and Cheddar Cheese Blend: 2 cups – Melty, cheesy finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef Layer

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook the Beef and Onions: Place a large sauté pan over medium-high heat, and add the ground beef along with a dab of margarine or butter. Crumble the beef as it cooks, adding the diced onions as well. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent.
3. Season and Add Corn: Add the canned corn (with liquid) to the pan, stirring well.
4. Add Gravy and Seasonings: Pour in the water, gravy mix, salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Stir until all the beef is coated in the flavorful gravy.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the beef mixture evenly into a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Set aside while you prepare the mashed potatoes.

Step 2: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

1. Boil Water and Margarine: In a medium saucepan, bring the water and margarine to a boil.
2. Add Potato Mix: Remove from heat, pour in the instant mashed potato mix and milk. Stir just until combined.
3. Let Sit and Stir: Let the potatoes sit for a minute, then stir until they’re smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Casserole

1. Layer the Potatoes: Spread the mashed potatoes over the ground beef layer in the baking dish, creating an even layer.
2. Add Tater Tots: Arrange the tater tots in a single layer on top of the mashed potatoes.
3. Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 30 minutes.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Finish Baking

1. Add Cheese: After 30 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the tater tots.
2. Return to Oven: Bake for an additional 4-6 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and just beginning to brown.
3. Cool Slightly and Serve: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for the Best Shepherd’s Pie Tater Tot Casserole

• Use Fresh or Frozen Vegetables: For added flavor and nutrients, feel free to swap the canned corn for fresh or frozen veggies like peas and carrots.
• Don’t Skip the Gravy Mix: It’s the secret to making the beef layer rich and savory!
• Extra Crispy Tots: For ultra-crispy tots, broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes at the end.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a Side Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the casserole.
• Add a Dollop of Sour Cream: A bit of sour cream on top adds a creamy, tangy finish.
• Perfect for Potlucks: This dish is easy to transport and a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for gatherings.

FAQs

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Can I Use Real Mashed Potatoes?

Absolutely! If you have leftover mashed potatoes or prefer to make your own, go for it!

How Long Will This Casserole Keep?

This casserole will keep for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Just cover tightly and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Why This Recipe’s a Winner

This Shepherd’s Pie Tater Tot Casserole takes a beloved classic and adds a fun, crispy twist with the tater tots and melted cheese. It’s a full, hearty meal in one pan that’s packed with layers of flavor from the savory beef to the creamy potatoes and cheesy topping. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this easy, family-friendly casserole!