Cheesy Broccoli Tater Tot Casserole Quick and Easy Meal

Looking for a quick comfort dish that the whole family will love? Look no further than my Cheesy Broccoli Tater Tot Casserole. This easy recipe combines crispy tater tots, fresh broccoli, and gooey cheese into one amazing meal. It’s perfect for busy nights and even better for potlucks! Grab your baking dish, and let’s dive into making this cheesy goodness that everyone will ask for again.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Cheesy Broccoli Tater Tot Casserole
– 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
– 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup milk
The base of this dish is frozen tater tots. They give a crispy texture. Fresh broccoli florets add brightness and nutrients. Shredded cheddar cheese makes it gooey and rich. Sour cream adds creaminess. The cream of mushroom soup brings a savory flavor. Lastly, milk helps blend everything together.
Spices and Seasonings
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Garlic powder and onion powder enhance the flavor of the dish. Salt and pepper balance everything. These spices are simple but vital for taste.
Optional Toppings
– 1 cup crispy fried onions (optional, for topping)
– Fresh chopped parsley for garnishing
Crispy fried onions add crunch on top. Fresh parsley gives a pop of color and flavor. You can mix and match toppings based on your taste.
For the full recipe, check out the details and get cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Broccoli
– Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch them for 2-3 minutes. They should turn bright green and be slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
Making the Cheesy Mixture
– In a large bowl, combine sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
– Gently fold in the blanched broccoli and 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until everything is well mixed.
Assembling the Casserole
– Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer the tater tots evenly across the bottom.
– Carefully pour the cheesy broccoli mixture over the tater tots. Spread it out evenly.
– Sprinkle the remaining 0.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese on top. If you want, add crispy fried onions for extra crunch.
Follow these steps to create a warm and cheesy meal. For the complete instructions, refer to the Full Recipe for Cheesy Broccoli Tater Tot Casserole.
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips
To ensure your casserole cooks evenly, spread the tater tots in a single layer. This helps create a lovely golden crust. If your oven runs hot or cool, keep an eye on the casserole. You may need to adjust the time by a few minutes. If it looks bubbly and golden, it’s time to take it out.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot for the best taste. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and flavor. You can pair this dish with a simple salad or some crusty bread. These sides balance the rich taste of the casserole.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can prepare the casserole in advance. Assemble it, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. If you want to freeze it, do so before baking. Wrap the dish tightly and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, bake it straight from the freezer. Just add extra time to ensure it heats through.
For the Full Recipe, check out the detailed steps above!
Variations
Vegetarian Variations
You can make this dish even better by adding other veggies. Cauliflower, carrots, or even bell peppers work great. They add color and taste. You can also switch out the creamy ingredients. Instead of sour cream, use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. You can replace cream of mushroom soup with a homemade version made from blended mushrooms and vegetable broth.
Protein Additions
To make it heartier, consider adding protein. Cooked chicken or ground beef mixes well with the flavors. Shred leftover rotisserie chicken for quick prep. Ground beef gives a nice texture and can be seasoned to your liking. If you prefer vegetarian options, try adding cooked lentils or chickpeas. They bring protein and a satisfying bite.
Gluten-Free Options
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free tater tots. Many brands offer tasty options that fit the bill. You should also look for gluten-free cream of mushroom soup. You can make your own by combining mushrooms, broth, and a gluten-free thickener. This keeps the dish creamy without the gluten.
Explore these variations to customize your cheesy broccoli tater tot casserole. You can follow the Full Recipe for more detailed instructions.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Cheesy Broccoli Tater Tot Casserole fresh, place leftovers in the fridge. Use airtight containers to prevent moisture loss and keep flavors intact. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure to let the casserole cool down before sealing it. This helps avoid condensation inside the container.
Freezing the Casserole
You can freeze the casserole for longer storage. First, let it cool completely. Then, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This prevents freezer burn. You can also portion it into smaller containers for easy meals later. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the casserole in the fridge overnight. For reheating, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot throughout.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, the casserole lasts about 3-4 days. If you freeze it, it can last up to 2-3 months. Watch out for signs of spoilage, like an off smell or a change in color. If you see any mold, throw it away immediately. Keeping an eye on these details ensures you enjoy your delicious meal to the fullest. For the full recipe, check out the main article.
FAQs
How long does it take to bake Cheesy Broccoli Tater Tot Casserole?
Baking this casserole takes about 30 to 35 minutes. I recommend setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). Keep an eye out for the cheese. It should be bubbly and golden brown when done. Every oven varies slightly, so check for doneness. If you like a crispier top, you can bake it a bit longer. Just make sure it doesn’t burn.
Can I use fresh cheese instead of shredded cheddar?
Yes, you can use fresh cheese! Fresh cheese, like mozzarella or gouda, can add a unique flavor. However, shredded cheese melts better and mixes well. If you choose fresh cheese, grate it finely for best results. You might also want to blend different cheeses for a richer taste. Experimenting with cheese can lead to fun flavors!
Is this casserole suitable for potlucks?
Absolutely! This casserole is a great choice for potlucks. It’s easy to make and always a hit. To transport it, cover the dish tightly with foil. If you can, bring it in an insulated carrier to keep it warm. You can serve it right from the baking dish. Just make sure to bring a spatula or spoon for easy serving. Everyone will love digging into this cheesy delight!
This Cheesy Broccoli Tater Tot Casserole is a fun and tasty dish. You learned about the key ingredients, like tater tots, cheese, and broccoli. We went step by step on how to prepare, bake, and store it. Remember, you can add veggies or protein if you want. This casserole is great for family meals or potlucks. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do. Happy cooking!
