Shepherd’s pie meets tater tots in this hearty casserole. Layers of beef, mashed potatoes, and crispy tots, topped with melted cheese. Ready in 50 minutes!
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Shepherd’s Pie Tater Tot Casserole is a dish that brings two comforting classics together in one easy, family-friendly meal. It combines the hearty, savory layers of shepherd’s pie with the crispy, golden topping of tater tot casserole. The result is a warm, satisfying dish that is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a comforting meal to gather around the table.
This recipe has been a go-to in my kitchen, especially during chilly evenings. The combination of flavors, from the rich beef filling to the crispy tater tots, always brings everyone to the table with excitement.
Essential Ingredients
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef creates a flavorful and hearty base. Substitute with turkey or chicken for a lighter option.Yellow Onion: Diced onions add a touch of sweetness and depth.Canned Corn: The liquid adds moisture and slight sweetness to balance the savory elements.Beef Gravy Mix: Thickens the filling and enhances the rich, meaty flavor.Instant Mashed Potatoes: A shortcut to creamy mashed potatoes that blend seamlessly into the casserole.Frozen Tater Tots: Provide the signature crispy topping.Shredded Cheese: A mix of mozzarella and cheddar melts beautifully for a gooey, flavorful finish.
Cooking Process
Sauté the Beef Base:Melt butter in a pan over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir in diced onions and cook until softened. Add canned corn (with liquid), water, beef gravy mix, and seasonings. Simmer and transfer to a greased baking dish.Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:Bring water and butter to a boil. Remove from heat, stir in instant mashed potato mix and milk, then mix until smooth. Spread over the beef mixture.Arrange the Tater Tots:Evenly distribute frozen tater tots over the mashed potatoes. Bake at 425°F for 30 minutes until golden and crispy.Melt the Cheese:Sprinkle shredded cheese over the tater tots and return to the oven for a few minutes until melted and slightly golden.
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I personally love the richness the beef gravy brings to the filling. My family enjoys how the crispy tater tots contrast with the creamy mashed potatoes, making every bite satisfying.
Serving Suggestions
Pair It Right: Serve with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.Add a Side: A warm dinner roll or tomato soup makes the meal even more comforting.
Variations
Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.Experiment with Cheese: Try pepper jack, Colby Jack, or smoked gouda.Extra Crispy Topping: Air-fry the tater tots before adding them to the casserole.
Storage and Reheating
Keeping It Fresh: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.Freezing Tips: Freeze before baking for a make-ahead meal.Best Reheating Method: Warm in the oven at 350°F or use an air fryer to maintain crispiness.
This Shepherd’s Pie Tater Tot Casserole is a dish I return to time and again because of its simplicity and crowd-pleasing nature. Whether you're making it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, it always delivers comfort in every bite.
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Frequently Asked Questions
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well for a lighter version.
→ Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Try adding peas, carrots, or green beans for extra nutrition.
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate before baking. Add 5 extra minutes to the baking time.
→ Can I use fresh mashed potatoes?
Yes, substitute instant mashed potatoes with 2 cups of fresh mashed potatoes.
→ What cheese works best for this recipe?
Mozzarella and cheddar are great, but you can also use Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack for extra flavor.
Shepherd’s Pie Tater Tots
A hearty casserole with ground beef, mashed potatoes, and crispy tater tots. Topped with melted cheese – a family favorite!
152 cups shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend
Instructions
Step 01
Preheat the oven to 425°F. In a large sauté pan, melt a dab of margarine or butter over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once the beef starts browning, add the diced onions and cook until soft and the beef is fully cooked.
Step 02
Pour the canned corn (with liquid) into the pan. Stir in 1/2 cup water, beef gravy mix, salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix well and cook for 2-3 minutes.
Step 03
In a saucepan, bring 1 1/2 cups water and 2 tbsp margarine to a boil. Remove from heat, stir in the instant mashed potato mix and milk, and let sit for 1 minute. Stir until creamy.
Step 04
Transfer the beef mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Layer the mashed potatoes over the beef, then arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.
Step 05
Bake for 30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and bake for an additional 4-6 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.
Step 06
Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Add peas, carrots, or green beans for extra veggies and nutrition.
Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate before baking. Add 5 extra minutes to the baking time.
Try different cheeses like Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack for extra flavor.
Tools You'll Need
Large sauté pan
9x13-inch baking dish
Saucepan
Mixing spoon
Allergy Information
Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
Dairy (cheese, milk, margarine)
Gluten (check gravy mix and tater tots for gluten-free options)
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