Shepherd’s Pie Tater Tot Casserole (Print version)
Saucy ground beef, vegetables, cheddar, and crisp tater tots bake into a hearty shepherd’s pie-style casserole.
# Ingredients:
For the beef filling
01 -
1 tablespoon olive oil
02 -
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
03 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
04 -
1 lb (450 g) ground beef
05 -
2 tablespoons tomato paste
06 -
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
07 -
2 cups (480 ml) beef broth
08 -
2 cups (280 g) frozen mixed vegetables
09 -
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
10 -
1 teaspoon dried thyme
11 -
1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
12 -
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the topping
13 -
1 bag (32 oz or 900 g) frozen tater tots
14 -
1 1/2 cups (170 g) shredded cheddar cheese
15 -
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, optional
# Instructions:
01 -
Heat the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
02 -
Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
03 -
Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it into small crumbles, until no pink remains. Drain excess grease if needed.
04 -
Stir in the tomato paste and flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring, then add the mixed vegetables, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 4-5 minutes until thickened.
05 -
Spread the beef filling evenly in the prepared baking dish. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the filling, then sprinkle cheddar cheese on top.
06 -
Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, until the filling bubbles around the edges and the tater tots are golden and crisp.
07 -
Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with parsley if using.
# Good to know:
01 -
Use frozen tater tots straight from the bag for the crispiest topping.
02 -
Ground lamb can replace beef for a more traditional shepherd’s pie flavor.
03 -
Let the casserole rest before serving so the gravy sets slightly.