Skillet Tater Tot Casserole (No Condensed Soup!)

 Skillet Tater Tot Casserole (No Condensed Soup!) is a comforting, cheesy dish made with simple ingredients, cooked in one skillet, and no need for canned condensed soup. This version is made from scratch with flavorful seasonings and a creamy base.

Ingredients:

1 lb (450g) ground beef or turkey

1 small onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, etc.)

1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)

1/2 cup sour cream

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon paprika

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 package (32 oz) frozen tater tots

2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for greasing the skillet)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Ground Meat:

In a large skillet (preferably oven-safe), heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.

Add the ground beef or turkey and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).

Drain any excess fat if necessary.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the meat. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and the garlic becomes fragrant.

Add the frozen mixed vegetables and cook for another 3-4 minutes until heated through.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce:

Reduce the heat to low. Add the milk and sour cream to the skillet, stirring until smooth and creamy.

Season with thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Sprinkle in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy and well-combined.

4. Top with Tater Tots:

Evenly distribute the frozen tater tots on top of the creamy meat and vegetable mixture. Arrange them in a single layer, covering the entire surface.

5. Bake the Casserole:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.

6. Add Cheese and Serve:

Remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots. Return to the oven for another 5 minutes to melt the cheese.

Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips:

Make it extra cheesy: You can add a mix of different cheeses, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack, for added flavor.

Vegetarian version: Swap the ground meat for crumbled tempeh or add extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.

Customize: Feel free to use any frozen vegetables you like or have on hand (broccoli, green beans, etc.).

This Skillet Tater Tot Casserole (No Condensed Soup!) is a 

quick and satisfying one-pan meal perfect for a family dinner or a weeknight treat!