Tater Tot Casserole just got a game-changing upgrade, and it’s everything you didn’t know you needed. This Midwest classic, known for its cozy flavors and crowd-pleasing appeal, has finally ditched the canned soup for good.
With fresh, wholesome ingredients and a homemade twist, this revamped recipe caters to gluten-free diets while keeping the rich, hearty flavors intact. It’s proof that comfort food can be both indulgent and better for you—without losing its soul.
Homemade Cream Sauce Replaces Condensed Soup
One key element of this revamped Tater Tot Casserole is the absence of condensed soup, a common ingredient that often contains gluten and unnecessary additives. Instead, the recipe features a homemade cream sauce made with gluten-free flour, broth, milk, and seasonings.
This simple yet flavorful sauce serves as the perfect base for the casserole, providing a creamy and satisfying texture.
By opting for a homemade cream sauce, home cooks can have complete control over the ingredients and ensure that the dish remains gluten-free. Additionally, the scratch-made sauce allows for customization, enabling individuals to adjust the seasonings to their liking or accommodate other dietary restrictions, such as dairy-free or low-sodium diets.
One-Skillet Method Simplifies Preparation
Another notable aspect of the Tater Tot Casserole (No Condensed Soup) is its one-pan preparation method. Traditional casserole recipes often require multiple dishes and steps, but this updated version streamlines the process by utilizing a single oven-safe skillet. From browning the ground beef to baking the tater tot topping, every step is completed in the same pan.
The one-skillet approach also minimizes cleanup, making it an attractive option for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests. Plus, the use of a cast-iron skillet enhances the overall flavor of the dish, as the pan’s seasoning contributes to the depth and richness of the casserole.
Versatile & Customizable Recipe
While the Tater Tot Casserole (No Condensed Soup) recipe provides a solid foundation, it also leaves room for customization and versatility. Home cooks can easily adapt the recipe to suit their preferences or utilize ingredients they have on hand. For example, ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots can be added to boost the nutritional value.
Moreover, the recipe can be tailored to accommodate various dietary needs or restrictions. For those following a dairy-free lifestyle, the cream sauce can be prepared with plant-based milk and cheese alternatives. Vegetarians can replace the ground meat with plant-based crumbles or additional vegetables to create a meatless version of the casserole.
Tater Tot Casserole (No Condensed Soup)
Equipment
- 10-1/4″ cast iron skillet
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- salt and pepper
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 shallot chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 3 tbsp gluten-free or all-purpose flour
- 1-1/2 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 cup milk use skim
- 2 tbsp gluten-free tamari or soy sauce
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 lb bag tater tots
Instructions
- Follow the instructions on the tater tot bag to preheat your oven. In a large, oven-proof skillet (at least 10"; cast iron is recommended), brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Season with salt and pepper, then drain and set aside.
- Reduce the heat to medium and melt butter in the skillet. Add mushrooms and shallots, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 3-5 minutes until the mushrooms begin to soften. Add garlic and sauté for an additional minute. Sprinkle flour into the skillet and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute. Gradually pour in chicken broth and milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Add tamari/soy sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika. Increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a bubble, then reduce the heat back to medium and simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the ground beef. Arrange tater tots on top of the mixture. Place the skillet on a baking sheet (or place one on the rack below) and bake according to the tater-to-bag instructions. After baking, allow the dish to sit for 5 minutes to thicken before serving.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.