This Vegetarian Tater Tot Casserole is a fun and hearty dish! It layers colorful veggies, creamy goodness, and crispy tater tots on top, making it a crowd-pleaser.
I love how easy it is to prepare. Just mix everything up, pop it in the oven, and enjoy the cheesy, crunchy goodness! Perfect for busy weeknights when you need comfort food fast.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: Frozen tater tots are the star here, giving that crispy layer. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using sweet potato tots for a different flavor and added nutrition!
Mixed Vegetables: You can use any veggies you like! If you have broccoli, bell peppers, or even spinach on hand, feel free to toss those in instead. It’s a great way to customize your dish.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: If you’re not a fan of mushrooms or need a vegan version, swap it out for a vegan cream of celery or make a homemade white sauce. It’s easy and delicious!
Vegetable Broth: You could substitute it with water if you’re in a pinch, but broth adds extra flavor. If you want a richer taste, try using a low-sodium variety.
Cheddar Cheese: I recommend sharp cheddar for its strong flavor. However, if you want it dairy-free, pick a good vegan cheese that melts well. Nutritional yeast is also a nice cheesy alternative if you’re looking for something different!
How Do I Sauté Onion and Garlic Perfectly?
Sautéing onions and garlic correctly is key for building flavor in your casserole. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start with medium heat. Adding the onion and garlic too quickly may burn them.
- Add a bit of oil to your skillet, enough to coat the bottom. Olive oil or avocado oil works well.
- Add the diced onion first; let it cook for 3-4 minutes until it’s translucent. Stir occasionally!
- Next, add the minced garlic. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- If you notice them browning too quickly, reduce the heat a bit. You want them soft, not brown.
This technique boosts the dish’s flavor profile, making sure every bite is delicious!
How to Make Vegetarian Tater Tot Casserole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 package (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or a vegan alternative)
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a vegan cheese alternative)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful casserole takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30-35 minutes to bake. So, in around 45 minutes, you’ll have a warm, hearty dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, get your oven ready! Preheat it to 400°F (200°C) so it’s hot and ready for your casserole.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion turns translucent. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
3. Add the Mixed Vegetables:
Next, toss in the mixed vegetables into the skillet with the onion and garlic. Cook them for about 5 more minutes, stirring occasionally until they’re heated through and a bit tender.
4. Prepare the Soup Mixture:
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, vegetable broth, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together until well mixed. This will be the creamy goodness for your casserole!
5. Combine Everything in the Skillet:
Pour that lovely soup mixture over the sautéed vegetable mix in the skillet. Use a spatula to carefully stir everything together, making sure all the veggies are coated in the creamy sauce.
6. Assemble the Casserole:
Now it’s time to transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, or you can keep it all in your oven-safe skillet if you like! Spread it out evenly.
7. Add the Tater Tots:
Take your frozen tater tots and layer them evenly over the vegetable mixture. It’s okay if they overlap a bit; they will bake up nicely!
8. Sprinkle the Cheese:
Now, grab your shredded cheddar cheese (or vegan alternative) and sprinkle it generously over the tater tots. Cheese makes everything better, right?
9. Bake It Up:
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You want the tater tots to be golden brown and crispy on top. Keep an eye on it!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done baking, carefully remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a nice, colorful touch. Now it’s time to enjoy your delicious Vegetarian Tater Tot Casserole! Serve warm and watch it disappear.
Can I Use Fresh Vegetables Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh vegetables, you can substitute them for the frozen mixed vegetables. Just be sure to chop them into small pieces and cook them slightly longer (about 8-10 minutes) in the skillet to ensure they soften before adding the soup mixture.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Adding a splash of vegetable broth can help keep it moist!
Can I Add Protein to This Casserole?
Definitely! For added protein, consider incorporating cooked lentils or chickpeas before baking. You can also use crumbled tofu or tempeh that’s seasoned and sautéed with the onion and garlic for a delicious twist!
