Wednesday, September 3, 2008

DelBorrello's Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole


I'm always talking about all the fabulous cooks in my family. My sisters and brothers (and all of their spouses), nieces, nephews, and of course my Mom. Everyone in my family seems to have at least one signature dish.
Tricia's husband, Chris, the newest member of the Quaile family, told me he only knows how to make one thing, Tater Tot Casserole. He made it for everyone when we got together at Jeanie's to watch the closing ceremonies of The Olympics, and everyone loved it. So, when he asked me if I'd like the recipe, I said "Of course!" It's simple, easy and delicious! Thanx Chris! Welcome to the family!



OK Joey, here it is.
There are three really great things about this recipe. First, it is easy to prepare and is great for parties. Second, you can make this dish as healthy (adults) or unhealthy (kids) as you want. Third, since this is a casserole dish, you can play around with and substitute different ingredients according to you and your family's taste. The recipe below is my personal spin and the one I personally love the most!
Thanks,
Chris


Ingredients:
1 1/2 lbs of lean ground beef
1 large diced tomato
1 small diced onion
1 can of cream of mushroom (or cream of celery) soup
1 package of shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and Pepper
and of course 1 package of tater tots

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 425F
2. Brown beef in skillet (season beef with salt and pepper)
3. Drain and pack beef to bottom of 13 X 9 glass casserole dish
4. Add diced tomatoes and onions evenly throughout pan
5. Add can of cream of mushroom soup evenly
6. Place tater tots neatly across top in nice rows
(cover entire dish so that all you see are tater tots)
7. Place dish in oven for about 1/2 hour to 45 minutes or until tater tots
are fully golden brown and crisp.
8. Add the whole package of shredded cheddar cheese during the last 5 minutes so it melts.
9. Take out and Enjoy!!!


Chris's Tips For a Healthier Dish:
Substitute beef with ground turkey (tastes the same)
Add more veggies such as green beans
Go easy on the tater tots
Use cheese more sparingly

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