Father's Day Casserole Recipe

Ground beef: Provides the hearty, savory base for the casserole.

Onion: Adds flavor and a bit of sweetness to the beef mixture.

Cheddar cheese: Melts into the casserole, adding a rich, cheesy layer.

Cream of mushroom soup: Binds the ingredients together with a creamy texture.

Tater tots: Creates a crispy, golden topping that contrasts with the creamy filling.

When browning the ground beef and chopped onion in the skillet, make sure to break the beef into small, even pieces. This ensures that the meat cooks evenly and allows the onion to caramelize properly, adding a depth of flavor to the casserole. Additionally, for a richer taste, consider using a mix of cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese in the beef mixture. This combination will give a creamier texture and a more complex flavor profile.

• ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can provide a similar texture and flavor profile.

• chopped onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder and slightly sweeter taste, which can add a different depth of flavor.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded mozzarella: Mozzarella melts well and provides a creamy texture, though it has a milder flavor compared to cheddar.

• cream of mushroom soup - Substitute with cream of chicken soup: Cream of chicken soup can offer a similar creamy consistency and savory flavor.

• frozen tater tots - Substitute with hash brown potatoes: Hash brown potatoes can provide a similar crispy texture and potato flavor when baked.

• Allow the casserole to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the tater tots soggy.
• Transfer the cooled casserole to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
• For freezing, wrap the casserole tightly with plastic wrap, then cover with a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the container with the date and contents to keep track of freshness.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is bubbly.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover Father's Day Casserole in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from drying out.
  4. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is warmed through.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to let the cheese get bubbly again.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a portion of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to retain moisture.
  3. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through.
  4. Stir the casserole to ensure even heating and continue to heat in 30-second intervals until hot.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Place a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the skillet.
  3. Add the leftover casserole to the skillet and cover with a lid.
  4. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the casserole is heated through.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place a portion of the casserole in the air fryer basket.
  3. Heat for 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it doesn't overcook.
  4. If needed, add a sprinkle of cheese on top for the last 2 minutes to get it melted and bubbly.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at a consistent temperature of 375°F (190°C).

• Skillet: Used to cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is browned.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the cooked beef and onion with the cream of mushroom soup and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

• Baking dish: Used to spread the beef mixture evenly and top with an even layer of tater tots.

• Spatula: Used to stir and mix the ingredients in the skillet and mixing bowl.

• Measuring cup: Used to measure 1 cup of chopped onion and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.

• Can opener: Used to open the can of cream of mushroom soup.

• Oven mitts: Used to safely handle the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.

• Cheese grater: Used to shred the cheddar cheese if it is not pre-shredded.

• Cooling rack: Used to let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pre-cook the beef: Cook the ground beef and onion in advance and store them in the fridge. This will save you time when assembling the casserole.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheddar cheese to cut down on prep time.

Thaw the tater tots: Let the tater tots thaw slightly before using them. This helps them cook faster and more evenly.

One-pan method: Cook the beef mixture directly in an oven-safe skillet. This way, you can transfer it straight to the oven, reducing the number of dishes to wash.