Ree Drummond’s Tater Tot Casserole Recipe | Easy & Delicious

Ree Drummond Tater Tot Casserole: A Comforting and Delicious Dish
If you are looking for a hearty and satisfying meal that can feed a crowd, you might want to try Ree Drummond’s tater tot casserole. The Pioneer Woman enjoys cooking this recipe for her family and friends since it is one of her favorites. This article will discuss the definition of tater tot casserole, its history, Ree Drummond, who created it, and how to prepare it. We will also provide some advice on how to consistently make the ideal tater tot casserole.

WHAT IS TATER TOT CASSEROLE?

Tater tot casserole is a baked dish that consists of layers of tater tots (small, crispy potato nuggets), ground meat, cream of mushroom soup, cheese, and other ingredients. In certain areas, notably in the Midwest of the United States, it is also referred to as hotdish. A simple and inexpensive dish, tater tot casserole is readily adaptable to diverse tastes and preferences.

THE HISTORY OF TATER TOT CASSEROLE

Tater tot casserole is believed to have originated in the 1950s, when convenience foods such as canned soups and frozen potatoes became popular in American households. The dish was a way to use up leftovers and create a filling meal with minimal effort. The first printed recipe for tater tot casserole appeared in a cookbook published by the Ore-Ida company, the inventor of tater tots, in 1968. Since then, the meal has established itself as a standard at family reunions, potlucks, and school lunches all throughout the nation.

REE DRUMMOND: THE PIONEER WOMAN

With her husband and four children, Ree Drummond, a well-known blogger, cookbook author, and TV personality, lives on a ranch in Oklahoma. In addition to sharing recipes, photos, and home décor advice on her blog, The Pioneer Woman, she established it in 2006. Her blog has garnered millions of devoted followers and several honors. She also has her own program on the Food Network and has authored numerous best-selling cookbooks. Ree Drummond is renowned for her down to earth demeanor and her delectable dishes that draw on her rural upbringing.

REE DRUMMOND’S TATER TOT CASSEROLE RECIPE

Here is Ree Drummond’s famous tater tot casserole recipe. Crafting this dish is a breeze and it can be personalized to cater to your unique flavor preferences.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• One container of condensed cream of mushroom soup, sized at 10.75 ounces.
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 bag (32 ounces) tater tots
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium-high heat until beef is browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Spread tater tots in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Pour the beef mixture over the tater tots and spread evenly.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of the beef mixture.
7. When the cheese has melted and become golden-brown while bubbling, slide the casserole dish into the oven and let it bake for about 30 to 35 minutes.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!

TIPS FOR MAKING THE PERFECT TATER TOT CASSEROLE

Here are some tips for making the best tater tot casserole ever:

Customize Your Casserole

You can add or substitute different ingredients to make your own version of tater tot casserole.For instance, you may add veggies like corn, peas, carrots, or mushrooms or substitute ground beef, turkey, or chicken for the bacon. Additionally, you may use many types of cheese, including Swiss, Monterey jack, and cheddar.

Use High-Quality Ingredients

Use premium items in your casserole, such as organic eggs, grass-fed beef, and fresh cheese, to enhance the flavor even more. In addition, you don’t have to use canned cream of mushroom soup; you may prepare your own from scratch. Your casserole will taste better and be healthier as a result.

How to Properly Layer a Casserole

Layer your ingredients properly to guarantee an evenly cooked dish with a satisfying texture. Put a layer of tater tots in the bottom of the dish, add the egg mixture on top of them, and then add another layer. By doing this, the bottom layer won’t get wet and the top layer won’t become dry.

Temperature and cooking time adjustments

You may need to modify the cooking time and temperature of your casserole depending on your oven and the size of your baking dish. Your dish may cook more quickly or more slowly than you anticipate if it is too thin or thick. If a knife or toothpick inserted in the middle of your casserole and removed cleanly, your casserole is done. Covering your casserole with foil can stop it from burning if the top is browning too rapidly.

Rest Your Casserole

Let the casserole cool for approximately 10 minutes after you remove it from the oven before serving. The casserole will be able to set and stiffen up as a result, making it simpler to cut and serve. Additionally, it will aid in flavor fusion and improve the overall flavor of your food.

CONCLUSION

Tater tot casserole is a classic American dish that’s easy to make and always satisfying. Ree Drummond’s recipe is a tried-and-true favorite, but you can customize your casserole to suit your taste preferences. Use high-quality ingredients, layer your casserole correctly, and adjust the cooking time and temperature as needed. And don’t forget to let your casserole rest before serving!

FAQS

1. Is it possible to prepare tater tot casserole in advance?

 Yes! You can assemble your casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to bake it. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed if your casserole is cold.

2. Can I use frozen vegetables in my casserole? 

Yes! In case you prefer, using frozen vegetables as a substitute for fresh ones is a viable option. Ensure that you defrost them before incorporating them into your dish.

3. Can I use a different type of soup in my casserole? 

Yes! You can use cream of chicken, cream of celery, or any other type of cream soup you prefer.

4. Is it possible to prepare tater tot casserole using a slow cooker?

Yes! You can adapt Ree Drummond’s recipe for a slow cooker by browning your beef and onions first, then adding them to your slow cooker with the rest of your ingredients. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until your casserole is hot and bubbly.

5. Can I make tater tot casserole without meat?

 Yes! You can skip the meat in Ree Drummond’s recipe and load it up on vegetables instead. Try using mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, and other veggies in your casserole for a delicious meat-free version.