Church Supper Hot Dish: A Hearty Tradition of Community and Comfort

Step into the heart of community and comfort with the iconic Church Supper Hot Dish. This timeless recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a symbol of togetherness, warmth, and the joy found in sharing a meal with neighbors and friends. Often gracing the tables of potlucks and church gatherings, this hot dish has the power to bring people together over layers of savory goodness. Join us as we dive into the roots of this beloved tradition, explore the key ingredients, master the assembly, and discover variations that make it a versatile staple for any occasion.

Ingredients

Essential Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 bag (32 ounces) frozen tater tots
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Brown Ground Beef

1. Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Brown Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Drain excess grease.

2. Layer the Casserole

3. Combine Soups and Sour Cream: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Mix well.
4. Add Vegetables: Stir in the frozen peas and corn into the soup mixture.
5. Assemble Layers: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the cooked ground beef as the bottom layer. Pour the soup and vegetable mixture over the beef, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Top with Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in neat rows over the cheese, covering the entire surface.

3. Bake to Perfection

7. Bake Hot Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the hot dish for 35-40 minutes or until the tater tots are golden brown, and the casserole is bubbling.
8. Garnish and Serve: If desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Scoop generous portions onto plates and enjoy the comforting flavors.

Cook Notes

• Tater Tot Arrangement: For a visually appealing presentation, consider arranging the tater tots in a pattern or in concentric circles.
• Cheese Choice: Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends, such as adding Monterey Jack or Colby for a unique twist.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the hot dish up to the point of baking, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed, allowing a few extra minutes for the chilled casserole.

Variations

Beef and Veggie Medley:

Incorporate diced carrots and green beans for an added burst of color and nutrition.

Cheesy Broccoli Boost:

Mix in chopped broccoli florets and replace one of the cream soups with broccoli cheese soup for a richer flavor.

Turkey Twist:

Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter alternative with a unique taste.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

Cauliflower Power:

Replace tater tots with cauliflower tots or cauliflower mash for a low-carb option.

Creamy Cauliflower Base:

Substitute cream soups with a blend of pureed cauliflower, heavy cream, and chicken broth for a keto-friendly sauce.

Almond Flour Crust:

Create a crust using a mixture of almond flour, shredded cheese, and butter for added crunch without the carbs.

In conclusion, the Church Supper Hot Dish isn’t just a casserole; it’s a symbol of tradition, unity, and the joy of coming together. Whether enjoyed at a church potluck, a family gathering, or a cozy weeknight dinner, this hot dish is a classic that transcends generations.

May your kitchen be filled with the aroma of this comforting creation, and your table adorned with a dish that brings people closer. Share it with loved ones, pass it on to neighbors, or bring it to community events—because the Church Supper Hot Dish isn’t just food; it’s a vessel for love and connection.

Here’s to the joy of shared meals, the warmth of community, and the satisfaction found in a hot dish that stands the test of time. So, savor each bite, appreciate the layers of flavor, and relish in the tradition that makes the Church Supper Hot Dish a beloved classic in the tapestry of comfort food!