Ingredients :
For the Beef Layer
Lean Ground Beef: 1 lb – Provides the hearty base of the casserole.
Yellow Onions: 1 cup, diced – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
Canned Corn: 12 oz, undrained – Brings a touch of sweetness and texture.
Water: 1/2 cup – Helps create the gravy.
Beef Gravy Mix: 0.87 oz packet – Gives the beef layer a rich, savory flavor.
Seasonings:
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
Onion Powder: 1/2 tablespoon
Garlic Powder: 1/2 tablespoon
For the Mashed Potatoes
Water: 1 1/2 cups
Margarine: 2 tablespoons – Adds creaminess.
Instant Mashed Potato Mix: 4 oz – Quick and easy way to add fluffy mashed potatoes.
Milk: 1/2 cup – For creaminess in the mashed potatoes.
For the Topping
Frozen Tater Tots: 28 oz – Crispy topping for the casserole.
Shredded Mozzarella and Cheddar Cheese Blend: 2 cups – Melty, cheesy finish.
Directions :
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef Layer
1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook the Beef and Onions: Place a large sauté pan over medium-high heat, and add the ground beef along with a dab of margarine or butter. Crumble the beef as it cooks, adding the diced onions as well. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent.
3. Season and Add Corn: Add the canned corn (with liquid) to the pan, stirring well.
4. Add Gravy and Seasonings: Pour in the water, gravy mix, salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Stir until all the beef is coated in the flavorful gravy.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the beef mixture evenly into a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Set aside while you prepare the mashed potatoes.
Step 2: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
1. Boil Water and Margarine: In a medium saucepan, bring the water and margarine to a boil.
2. Add Potato Mix: Remove from heat, pour in the instant mashed potato mix and milk. Stir just until combined.
3. Let Sit and Stir: Let the potatoes sit for a minute, then stir until they’re smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Casserole
1. Layer the Potatoes: Spread the mashed potatoes over the ground beef layer in the baking dish, creating an even layer.
2. Add Tater Tots: Arrange the tater tots in a single layer on top of the mashed potatoes.
3. Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 30 minutes.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
1. Add Cheese: After 30 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the tater tots.
2. Return to Oven: Bake for an additional 4-6 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and just beginning to brown.
3. Cool Slightly and Serve: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
