The Duggar family’s tater tot casserole is a classic comfort food dish, known for its creamy layers of ground beef, savory soup, and crispy tater tots. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd or as a satisfying weeknight meal.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples and frozen tater tots.
Quick to prepare: Minimal prep work with a delicious outcome.
Versatile: Easy to customize with additional ingredients.
Comfort food: A hearty, satisfying dish for any occasion.

What Is Duggar Tater Tot Casserole?

Duggar tater tot casserole is a layered dish made with seasoned ground beef, cream soups, and tater tots baked to golden perfection. It’s a budget-friendly and comforting meal that’s become a family favorite.

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Duggar Tater Tot Casserole Ingredients

Ground beef: 1½ lbs
Onion: 1 medium, diced
Cream of mushroom soup: 1 can (10.5 oz)
Cream of chicken soup: 1 can (10.5 oz)
Milk: 1 cup
Frozen tater tots: 1 bag (32 oz)
Cheddar cheese: 1 cup, shredded (optional)
Salt and pepper: To taste
Vegetable oil: 1 tablespoon (optional, for sautéing)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Duggar Tater Tot Casserole

Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat (if needed). Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Season with salt and pepper. Drain any excess grease.

Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and milk. Stir until smooth.

Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Spread the cooked ground beef and onion mixture evenly over the bottom of the dish.
Pour the soup mixture over the beef layer, spreading it out evenly.
Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the sauce.

Bake the Casserole

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.

Add Cheese (Optional)

If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots during the last 5 minutes of baking. Allow it to melt before serving.

What to Serve with Duggar Tater Tot Casserole

Steamed vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or carrots make great sides.
Garden salad: A fresh salad balances the richness of the casserole.
Dinner rolls: Serve warm rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.
Applesauce: A sweet and tangy accompaniment.

Expert Tips for Perfect Tater Tot Casserole

Use lean ground beef: Reduces excess grease and makes the dish less heavy.
Keep the tots crispy: Bake uncovered to achieve a golden, crispy topping.
Customize the layers: Add canned green beans, corn, or cooked bacon for extra flavor.
Season to taste: Adjust salt and pepper to suit your preferences.
Let it cool slightly: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving to set the layers.

Variations of Duggar Tater Tot Casserole

Mexican-style: Add taco seasoning to the beef and top with salsa and jalapeños.
Breakfast version: Use sausage instead of beef and include scrambled eggs.
Vegetarian: Substitute the beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils.
Cheesier: Add a layer of cheese between the beef and the soup mixture.
Spicy kick: Mix hot sauce or cayenne pepper into the soup mixture.

How to Store Duggar Tater Tot Casserole Leftovers

Refrigerate: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How to Reheat Duggar Tater Tot Casserole Leftovers

Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes.
Air fryer: Crisp up the tater tots by reheating in an air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

Calories: 400
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 20g
Sodium: 850mg
Fiber: 2g

FAQs

Can I use different soups in Duggar tater tot casserole?

Yes, you can customize the casserole by using other creamy soups like cream of celery or cheddar cheese soup. Mixing two different soups adds more depth of flavor.

How do I keep the tater tots crispy in the casserole?

To keep tater tots crispy, bake the casserole uncovered, ensuring the hot air circulates around the tots. Avoid adding too much liquid to the sauce, as it can make the topping soggy.

Can I make Duggar tater tot casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate it, then bake just before serving. Add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.

What vegetables can I add to the Duggar tater tot casserole?

Popular vegetables to add include green beans, corn, peas, or diced carrots. Layer the vegetables over the cooked ground beef before adding the soup mixture and tater tots.

Final Words

Duggar tater tot casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that’s easy to make and loved by all. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a family dinner, this recipe delivers big on flavor and satisfaction. Try it today for a nostalgic taste of classic home cooking!