Midwest Tater Tot Pickle Hotdish (Printable)

Classic Midwest casserole with beef, cheddar, pickles, mixed veggies, and golden tater tots layered in a savory bake.

# Components:

→ Meat & Protein

01 - 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
05 - 1 cup dill pickle chips or slices, patted dry

→ Sauces & Dairy

06 - 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
07 - 1/2 cup whole milk
08 - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

→ Seasonings

09 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
10 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
11 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

→ Topping

12 - 1 bag (32 ounces) frozen tater tots
13 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (optional for extra crispness)

# Method:

01 - Set the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish.
02 - In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, until thoroughly browned, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess rendered fat.
03 - Add the chopped yellow onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned beef. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent.
04 - Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
05 - Reduce the skillet's heat to low. Incorporate the condensed cream of mushroom soup and whole milk. Stir until the mixture achieves a smooth consistency and is heated through, about 2 minutes.
06 - Remove the skillet from the heat. Gently fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it is just melted and evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
07 - Pour and spread the beef mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish, ensuring an even layer.
08 - Arrange the dill pickle chips or slices uniformly over the beef mixture, creating a distinct layer.
09 - Create a single, even layer of frozen tater tots over the pickle layer. For enhanced crispness, brush the tater tots with the melted unsalted butter.
10 - Bake the hotdish uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the tater tots achieve a golden-brown hue and the filling is bubbling vigorously.
11 - Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to set.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in under an hour with minimal prep work
  • Uses everyday pantry and freezer staples
  • Perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeknights
  • Combines unexpected flavors that surprisingly work beautifully together
02 -
  • Freezes beautifully for up to 3 months
  • Can be assembled a day ahead and refrigerated before baking
  • Perfect for potlucks as it stays warm for hours
  • Feeds a crowd economically about 8 generous servings

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