Cook Time ⇒	1 hr 10 mins
Active Time ⇒	20 mins
Protein ⇒	22g
Fat ⇒	45g
Carbs ⇒	52g

_{Tater Tot Hotdish – A Comforting One-Pot Meal}

Tater Tot Hotdish is the epitome of comforting, hearty meals. With crispy, golden tater tots layered over savory ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and a mix of vegetables, it’s an easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any family gathering or weeknight dinner. This simple one-pan meal packs in all the flavors you crave and is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

Ingredients :

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups yellow onion, chopped
• 1 pound ground chuck beef (80% lean)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 (10.5-ounce) cans condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 2 cups frozen cut green beans, thawed
• 2 cups frozen sweet corn, thawed
• 1 ½ pounds frozen tater tots
• ¼ teaspoon seasoned salt (such as Lawry’s®)
• ½ cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
• 2 small scallions, thinly sliced

Directions :

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2: In a large, deep cast iron skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Swirl the pan to coat it evenly. Add the chopped onions and spread them out in an even layer. Next, add the ground beef on top, breaking it into small pieces. Let it cook without stirring for about 2 minutes until the onions become translucent. Stir the beef and onions together, continuing to cook for an additional 3–4 minutes, until the beef is fully browned.

Step 3: Reduce the heat to medium. Season the beef mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir well and cook for another minute to let the flavors blend. Remove from heat and add in the cream of mushroom soup, thawed green beans, and corn. Stir everything together until it’s fully combined.

Step 4: In a small bowl, toss the tater tots with the seasoned salt until evenly coated. Arrange the tater tots in a decorative pattern over the beef and vegetable mixture in the skillet, making sure there are no large gaps between them.

Step 5: Place the skillet in the oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Remove the skillet from the oven. Sprinkle the hotdish with shredded Cheddar cheese and sliced scallions. Allow it to cool for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious, comforting meal!

Recipe Facts : A Healthy Twist on Comfort Food

Tater Tot Hotdish isn’t just a comforting and filling dish, but it also offers some interesting nutritional benefits, thanks to a few of its key ingredients.

• Ground Beef: This protein-packed ingredient is a good source of essential nutrients like iron and zinc. Choosing lean ground beef (like 80% lean) can help reduce the fat content while still providing a rich flavor.
• Green Beans and Corn: These vegetables add a healthy serving of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants to the dish. Green beans are high in vitamin C, while corn is a great source of fiber and natural sugars, making them a great balance for the heartier meat and potatoes.
• Cheddar Cheese: While cheese adds a creamy texture and delicious flavor, it also brings calcium and vitamin D to the table, which are important for bone health. Opting for sharp Cheddar can add a burst of flavor with a smaller amount.

For more information on the health benefits of green beans, you can check out the Wikipedia page on green beans.

Feel free to browse through more delicious and healthy recipes on our website at Hearty Recipes. You’ll find many more ideas for creating balanced and hearty meals your family will love!

_{The Nutritional Benefits of Tater Tot Hotdish Ingredients :}

Tater Tot Hotdish is a classic comfort food that brings together hearty, familiar ingredients in one satisfying casserole. While it’s traditionally known for its delicious blend of creamy meat and vegetables, topped with golden, crispy tater tots, it’s also packed with a variety of nutrients from the diverse ingredients it includes. Let’s break down the nutritional benefits of each ingredient that makes up this crowd-pleasing dish.

1. Ground Beef: A Source of Protein and Essential Nutrients

Ground beef is the primary protein source in Tater Tot Hotdish. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, making enzymes and hormones, and supporting overall growth. Ground beef is particularly rich in complete proteins, meaning it contains all the essential amino acids your body needs for muscle repair and immune function. It’s also an excellent source of iron, which helps in the formation of red blood cells and oxygen transport throughout the body. For those looking to support their muscle health or improve energy levels, beef can be a great addition to their diet.

However, when using ground beef in this recipe, opting for lean cuts like 90% lean beef can help reduce the amount of saturated fat and calories, making it a more heart-healthy choice. To learn more about the nutritional facts and health benefits of ground beef, visit its Wikipedia page on Beef.

2. Tater Tots: A Comforting Source of Carbohydrates and Fiber

Tater tots, the defining ingredient of this dish, are made primarily from potatoes. Potatoes are a great source of carbohydrates, which provide your body with the energy it needs for physical activity and brain function. They are also rich in dietary fiber, especially when the skin is left on. Fiber aids in digestion, helps to maintain healthy blood sugar levels, and supports heart health by lowering cholesterol.

Potatoes are also a good source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect your cells from damage and supports your immune system. While tater tots are typically deep-fried, they can be baked for a healthier alternative that retains the same crunchy texture. If you’re looking for more potato-based recipes, you can explore more ideas at hearty-recipes.com.

3. Cream of Mushroom Soup: A Source of Calcium and Vitamins

Cream of mushroom soup is a key ingredient in many hotdish recipes, adding creaminess and depth of flavor. The mushrooms used in the soup are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. Mushrooms are low in calories and contain fiber, antioxidants, and a good amount of B-vitamins such as riboflavin, niacin, and pantothenic acid, which are essential for energy production, nerve function, and metabolism. They also contain a compound called ergothioneine, which has been linked to anti-inflammatory effects.

Additionally, the cream base in the soup provides a source of calcium, an essential mineral that helps maintain strong bones and teeth, supports nerve function, and plays a role in muscle contraction. For more detailed information on the health benefits of mushrooms, check out the Wikipedia page on Mushrooms.

4. Frozen Vegetables: A Burst of Vitamins and Minerals

Many Tater Tot Hotdish recipes include frozen mixed vegetables, such as peas, carrots, and corn. These vegetables not only add color and texture to the dish but also provide a wide array of essential nutrients. For example, peas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins A, C, and K. Carrots are packed with beta-carotene, a form of vitamin A that supports eye health and immune function. Corn, though higher in carbohydrates, provides energy and is rich in antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which promote eye health and reduce inflammation.

Incorporating a variety of vegetables into the dish ensures a balance of nutrients, from vitamins to minerals, promoting good digestive health and supporting immune function. The combination of these vegetables in Tater Tot Hotdish helps to increase the dish’s antioxidant content, which fights oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

5. Cheese: A Source of Protein, Calcium, and Healthy Fats

Cheese, typically shredded cheddar or a blend of cheeses, is the finishing touch on this hearty casserole. Not only does it add a rich, creamy texture and savory flavor to the dish, but cheese is also packed with nutrients. Cheese is a great source of protein, which helps build and repair tissues. It’s also one of the best dietary sources of calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth. In addition to calcium, cheese is high in healthy fats, which are important for brain function and hormone regulation.

Some cheeses, like cheddar, also contain vitamin K2, which plays a role in regulating calcium within the body, helping to maintain bone density and support cardiovascular health. However, as cheese can be high in saturated fats and sodium, it’s important to use it in moderation. For more information on the nutritional benefits of cheese, explore the Wikipedia page on Cheese.

6. Onions: A Flavorful Addition Full of Antioxidants

Onions are a common ingredient in many savory dishes, and Tater Tot Hotdish is no exception. Though often used for flavor, onions provide significant health benefits as well. They are rich in antioxidants, such as quercetin, which has been shown to reduce inflammation and protect against oxidative stress. Onions are also a good source of vitamin C and sulfur compounds, which have been linked to improved heart health and enhanced detoxification processes in the body.

Furthermore, onions are low in calories and high in fiber, which makes them a great addition to any balanced meal. They also contain prebiotics, which help promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria. To discover more about onions and their health benefits, check out their Wikipedia page on Onions.

Conclusion: A Nutritious Comfort Food Option

Tater Tot Hotdish may be a beloved comfort food, but it also offers a variety of nutritional benefits thanks to its wholesome ingredients. From protein-packed ground beef to fiber-rich potatoes and nutrient-dense vegetables, this dish provides a balanced mix of essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. With the option to customize the recipe to suit dietary preferences and make it healthier by choosing leaner meats or baking the tater tots, you can enjoy this dish in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Whether you’re looking to enjoy a traditional family favorite or trying a new variation, Tater Tot Hotdish can easily fit into a nutritious, well-rounded meal plan. For more hearty and nutritious recipes to try, head over to hearty-recipes.com for additional inspiration.