Tater Tot Casserole with Broccoli Recipe

This recipe takes the classic comfort food of tater tot casserole and adds a twist of healthy broccoli. With creamy chicken soup and cheddar cheese, it's a hearty dish that's sure to please the whole family.

Photos of Tater Tot Casserole with Broccoli Recipe

Most of these ingredients are probably already in your pantry or fridge, but in case they aren't, you may need to pick up a few things. The dry onion dip mix, for instance, is a savoury addition that can be found in the soup or seasoning aisle of the supermarket. Also, the frozen bite size potato nuggets, or tater tots, can be found in the frozen foods section. Greek style yogurt is used as a healthier alternative to sour cream and can be found in the dairy aisle.

Ingredients for Broccoli and Tater Tot Casserole

Cooking spray: Used to prevent the casserole from sticking to the dish.

Cream of chicken soup: Acts as a base for the casserole, providing a rich, creamy texture.

Greek style yogurt: Adds a tangy flavor and creamy texture to the casserole.

Milk: Used to thin out the soup and yogurt mixture.

Dry onion dip mix: Adds savory flavor to the dish.

Parsley: Used for subtle, fresh flavor and garnish.

Garlic powder: Contributes to the savory flavor profile.

Ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat to the dish.

Salt: Enhances the other flavors in the dish.

Ground cayenne pepper: Adds a spicy kick to the dish.

Frozen bite size potato nuggets: The star of the dish, providing a satisfying crunch.

Frozen broccoli: Adds a healthy, nutritious element to the dish.

Cheddar cheese: Melts to create a gooey, cheesy topping.

One reader, Giovanna Stratton says:

This broccoli and tater tot casserole recipe is a game-changer! The creamy texture and the crispy tater tots make it a delightful comfort food. The blend of flavors is fantastic, and it's so easy to make. It's now a family favorite in our household!

Giovanna Stratton

Techniques Required for Making Broccoli and Tater Tot Casserole

How to prepare the casserole dish: Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent the casserole from sticking to the dish during baking.

How to mix the chicken soup mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, Greek-style yogurt, milk, dry onion dip mix, parsley, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth.

How to layer the casserole: Start by layering one bag of potato nuggets at the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Then, add the broccoli on top of the potato nuggets. Pour the chicken soup mixture evenly over the broccoli. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the mixture and top with the remaining bag of potato nuggets.

How to bake the casserole: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F and bake the casserole for about 1 hour until it is hot all the way through. This will ensure that the casserole is cooked to perfection and the flavors are well combined.

How To Make Tater Tot Casserole with Broccoli

A cheesy, appetizing dish, this tater tot casserole comes with layers of broccoli and creamy chicken soup mix that’s baked until crisp and golden brown.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour

Total: 1 hour 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

cooking spray
26ozcondensed cream of chicken soup,(1 can)
1½cupsGreek style yogurt
½cupmilk
1ozdry onion dip mix
2tbspdried parsley
1tbspgarlic powder
2tspground black pepper
1tspsalt
1tspground cayenne pepper
64ozfrozen potato nuggets,(2 packages), bite size, such as Tater Tots®
8ozfrozen broccoli,(1 package)
2cupscheddar cheese,grated

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Prepare a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray.
Mix the cream of chicken soup, Greek-style yogurt, milk, dry onion dip mix, parsley, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper in a bowl.
Layer 1 bag of potato nuggets into the bottom of the prepared casserole dish, then top with broccoli. Pour the chicken soup mixture evenly over the broccoli.
Sprinkle the Cheddar cheese over the mixture. Top with the remaining bag potato nuggets.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour until hot all the way through.
Serve warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 1036.99kcal
Fat: 71.09g
Saturated Fat: 18.46g
Trans Fat: 0.67g
Monounsaturated Fat: 25.45g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 17.67g
Carbohydrates: 48.49g
Fiber: 3.26g
Sugar: 4.04g
Protein: 51.90g
Cholesterol: 174.48mg
Sodium: 2254.12mg
Calcium: 336.37mg
Potassium: 791.74mg
Iron: 3.36mg
Vitamin A: 158.78µg
Vitamin C: 27.69mg

Helpful Technique for Perfecting This Casserole

When preparing the broccoli and tater tot casserole, it's important to ensure that the frozen broccoli is properly thawed before adding it to the casserole. This will prevent excess water from being released during the baking process, which could potentially make the casserole soggy. To thaw the broccoli, you can place it in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost function on your microwave. Once thawed, pat it dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture before adding it to the casserole. This will help maintain the texture and integrity of the casserole during baking.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Casserole

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that require minimal dishes and cook everything in one pot for easy cleanup.

Batch cooking: Prepare large quantities of ingredients and freeze them for future use in recipes to save time on busy days.

Use kitchen gadgets: Utilize tools like food processors and slow cookers to streamline the cooking process and save time.

Follow the recipe: Stick to the instructions and measurements to avoid mistakes that could waste time and ingredients.

Organize your kitchen: Keep your kitchen tidy and organized to easily find ingredients and utensils, saving time during meal preparation.

Substitute Ingredients For Tater Tot Casserole with Broccoli Recipe

cream of chicken soup - Substitute with cream of mushroom soup: Cream of mushroom soup can provide a similar creamy texture and flavor while adding a different depth of umami from the mushrooms.
greek style yogurt - Substitute with sour cream: Sour cream can provide a similar tanginess and creaminess to the dish.
milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Unsweetened almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative, providing a similar liquid base for the casserole.
dry onion dip mix - Substitute with dried onion flakes and garlic powder: This combination can provide the same savory and aromatic flavors as the dry onion dip mix.
frozen bite size potato nuggets - Substitute with frozen hash browns: Frozen hash browns can provide a similar potato base for the casserole.
frozen broccoli - Substitute with frozen cauliflower florets: Frozen cauliflower can provide a similar texture and absorb the flavors of the dish while adding a slightly different taste.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with monterey jack cheese: Monterey jack cheese can provide a milder flavor and similar melting properties to cheddar cheese.

Presentation Tips for a Delicious Casserole

Elevate the plating: When presenting the casserole, ensure that the layers are visible and neatly arranged. The potato nuggets should be evenly distributed, and the broccoli should be strategically placed to create an appealing visual impact.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped chives or parsley over the casserole to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness. This will enhance the overall presentation and provide a delightful aroma.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Consider adding a crunchy element to the dish, such as toasted breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips, to create an enticing textural contrast alongside the creamy casserole.
Use high-quality serving ware: Opt for elegant, oven-safe serving dishes that complement the rustic charm of the casserole. The right dish can enhance the overall dining experience and leave a lasting impression.
Accentuate with edible flowers: Introduce a touch of sophistication by delicately placing edible flowers, such as nasturtiums or pansies, on the casserole. This unexpected element will captivate the senses and add a refined touch to the presentation.
Create a decorative cheese crust: Arrange the cheddar cheese on top of the casserole in an artistic manner, allowing it to form a golden, lacy crust during baking. This will add a visually stunning element to the dish.
Serve with a side salad: Accompany the casserole with a vibrant side salad featuring a variety of colorful, crisp vegetables. The contrast in colors and textures will elevate the overall visual appeal of the dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Casseroles

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing various ingredients. It's great for quickly and efficiently preparing vegetables, nuts, and other foods.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is an essential kitchen tool for combining ingredients, whisking, and stirring. It comes in various sizes and materials, and is used for preparing batters, doughs, salads, and more.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Broccoli and Tater Tot Casserole

Let the broccoli and tater tot casserole cool completely to room temperature before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the casserole soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also transfer the cooled casserole to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole:
- Divide the cooled casserole into individual portions and place them in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. This allows you to thaw only the amount you need later.
- Alternatively, you can freeze the entire casserole in the baking dish. Wrap it tightly with a layer of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or wrapped dish with the date and contents for easy identification.
- The frozen broccoli and tater tot casserole will maintain its best quality for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
To reheat the refrigerated casserole, cover it with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. Remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking to crisp up the top if desired.
For frozen casserole, you can thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat as directed above. If reheating directly from frozen, increase the baking time to 45-60 minutes, covering with foil for the first 30-40 minutes to prevent excessive browning.
If you have any leftover cheddar cheese or greek style yogurt, you can sprinkle them on top of the casserole during the last few minutes of reheating for extra flavor and creaminess.

How To Reheat Leftover Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover broccoli and tater tot casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. This will help to retain moisture and prevent the top from burning. Heat the casserole for about 20-25 minutes, or until it's heated through.
If you prefer a crispier top, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of reheating. This will allow the tater tots to crisp up nicely, giving you a delightful contrast of textures.
For a quicker reheating method, use the microwave. Place a portion of the leftover casserole on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 1-2 minutes. Stir the casserole and continue heating in 30-second intervals until it's heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the broccoli to become mushy.
If you have a lot of leftover casserole, consider reheating it in batches. This will ensure that the casserole heats evenly and doesn't dry out. You can also add a splash of milk or cream to the casserole before reheating to help keep it moist and creamy.
For a tasty twist, try adding some extra shredded cheese or a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top of the casserole before reheating. This will give the dish a fresh, new flavor and a delightful crunchy texture.
If you're in a hurry, you can also reheat the casserole in a skillet on the stovetop. Place a portion of the casserole in a non-stick skillet over medium heat and stir occasionally until it's heated through. This method works well if you like a slightly crispy bottom on your casserole.

Interesting Trivia About Broccoli and Tater Tot Casserole

The tater tot casserole is a popular comfort food in the United States, especially in the Midwest. It is often served as a side dish or a main course and is a favorite at potlucks and family gatherings. The combination of creamy soup, crispy tater tots, and nutritious broccoli makes it a versatile and satisfying dish.

Is Making Broccoli and Tater Tot Casserole Cost-Effective?

This broccoli and tater tot casserole recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are affordable and easily accessible. The use of frozen broccoli and potato nuggets makes it budget-friendly. The addition of cheddar cheese and greek-style yogurt may slightly increase the cost, but overall, it's a reasonable option for a family meal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20. The overall verdict rating for this recipe would be 8/10 for its affordability and delicious taste.

Is This Casserole Healthy or Unhealthy?

This broccoli and tater tot casserole recipe, while undeniably comforting and delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:

High in calories and fat due to the cream of chicken soup, Greek yogurt, milk, and cheddar cheese
Processed ingredients like frozen potato nuggets and dry onion dip mix
Relatively low in nutrients, with only a small amount of broccoli

However, there are some positive aspects, such as the inclusion of Greek yogurt, which provides protein and calcium, and the use of broccoli, a nutrient-dense vegetable.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace the cream of chicken soup with a homemade version using low-fat milk and chicken broth, thickened with a roux made from whole wheat flour and olive oil
Use low-fat Greek yogurt and reduced-fat cheddar cheese to cut down on saturated fat and calories
Increase the amount of broccoli and add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or onions to boost the nutrient content
Opt for homemade potato nuggets using whole potatoes, olive oil, and seasoning, or replace them with a whole grain like quinoa or brown rice
Reduce the amount of dry onion dip mix and replace some of the seasoning with fresh herbs and spices like garlic, thyme, and paprika

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Casserole Recipe

This broccoli and tater tot casserole recipe is a delightful combination of creamy, savory, and crispy textures. The use of Greek-style yogurt adds a tangy richness, while the blend of spices and cheese creates a flavorful profile. The dish is easy to prepare and makes for a comforting and satisfying meal. However, to enhance the overall balance, consider incorporating fresh herbs or adding a touch of acidity to brighten the flavors. Overall, it's a hearty and indulgent dish that is sure to please the whole family.

Enhance Your Tater Tot Casserole with Broccoli Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic and chives

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful medley of roasted vegetables with a balsamic glaze

Garlic Bread: Buttery garlic breadsticks with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese

Similar Casserole Recipes to Try

Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas: These enchiladas are filled with tender chicken, smothered in a creamy and cheesy sauce, and baked to perfection.

Beef and Vegetable Stir Fry: This stir fry is packed with tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a flavorful sauce that will have your taste buds dancing.

Fruit Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing: This refreshing fruit salad is tossed in a sweet and tangy honey-lime dressing that brings out the natural flavors of the fruit.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This velvety smooth tomato soup is infused with aromatic basil and finished with a touch of cream for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Chocolate Lava Cake: This decadent dessert features a rich and gooey chocolate center that oozes out when you dig in, creating a truly indulgent treat.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Broccoli and Tater Tot Casserole

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms filled with a delicious blend of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Indulge in the creamy and flavorful spinach and artichoke dip, served with crispy tortilla chips. This classic appetizer is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of apple crisp, with tender baked apples, a crispy oat topping, and a hint of cinnamon. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch.

Why trust this Tater Tot Casserole with Broccoli Recipe:

This recipe is a delicious and comforting choice for a family meal. The combination of cream of chicken soup and greek-style yogurt creates a rich and creamy base, while the addition of parsley and garlic powder enhances the flavors. The use of frozen broccoli and potato nuggets makes it convenient and accessible for busy cooks. The layering of cheddar cheese adds a satisfying cheesy finish. Trust the balance of flavors and textures in this recipe to create a delightful casserole experience.

Want to share your experience making this Tater Tot Casserole with Broccoli or have any tips to enhance the recipe? Join the discussion in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of soup instead of cream of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different flavor.

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Absolutely, fresh broccoli can be used in place of frozen. Just make sure to blanch it first to ensure it cooks properly in the casserole.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake it. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly if the casserole is cold when it goes into the oven.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Of course! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste. Gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack would all be delicious alternatives.

Can I add other ingredients to the casserole?

Absolutely, you can customize the casserole to your liking by adding cooked bacon, diced ham, or even some sliced mushrooms. Get creative and make it your own!