When it comes to weeknight dinners, simplicity is key. That’s why this 4-Ingredient Hamburger Casserole is a game-changer. With just four simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and comforting meal that the whole family will love. Ground beef, creamy tomato soup, cheddar cheese, and crispy tater tots come together to form a satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy nights when you need dinner on the table fast. Let’s dive into this easy and tasty recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 (16 oz) can of creamy tomato soup
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (30 oz) package of frozen tater tots
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
- Spread the cooked ground beef evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the creamy tomato soup over the ground beef layer, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the soup layer.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese, covering the entire surface of the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is bubbly.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve hot and enjoy this deliciously simple hamburger casserole!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Feel free to customize this casserole with additional ingredients such as diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Simply sauté them with the ground beef for added flavor and texture.
- For a spicy kick, you can add a sprinkle of chili powder or red pepper flakes to the ground beef mixture.
- If you prefer a different type of cheese, you can substitute it for the cheddar cheese. Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack would all work well in this recipe.
- For a lighter version, you can use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef, and opt for a low-fat or reduced-sodium tomato soup.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use fresh instead of frozen tater tots?
A: Yes, you can use fresh tater tots if you prefer. Simply arrange them in a single layer on top of the casserole as directed. Keep in mind that fresh tater tots may require a slightly shorter baking time compared to frozen ones.
Q: Can I make this hamburger casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply follow the instructions up to the point of baking, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before baking as directed.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this hamburger casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers of this casserole for future meals. Once cooled, tightly wrap the dish with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or transfer it to an airtight freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.
Q: Can I make a keto-friendly version of this hamburger casserole?
A: While traditional tater tots and creamy tomato soup are not keto-friendly due to their high carb content, you can make a keto-friendly version of this casserole by substituting the tater tots with cauliflower florets or broccoli florets, and using a keto-friendly cream soup alternative made with almond milk and heavy cream.
This 4-Ingredient Hamburger Casserole is proof that simple ingredients can yield delicious results. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or craving some comfort food, this easy-to-make casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Give it a try and enjoy the ease and deliciousness of this crowd-pleasing dish!
