Introduction

Looking for a comforting, hearty dish that will satisfy the whole family? Look no further than this Delicious Angel Beef Casserole recipe! Made with savory lean ground beef, a creamy sauce, and topped with crispy tater tots, this casserole is an absolute winner for any busy weeknight dinner. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it’s also packed with flavor and perfect for serving up leftovers the next day. Whether you’re new to casseroles or looking for a fresh take on a classic, this recipe is for you.

Why Delicious Angel Beef Casserole Is Perfect for You

If you’re a fan of easy-to-make, family-friendly meals that pack a punch of flavor, this recipe is ideal for you. The blend of creaminess from the cream cheese and mushroom soup, paired with the crunch of golden tater tots, creates a well-balanced dish that’s filling yet satisfying. It’s perfect for anyone who wants a quick but delicious meal that can feed a crowd, plus it stores wonderfully for those days when you need leftovers.

Ingredients Overview

Here’s what you’ll need for this casserole:

• 2 lbs lean ground beef

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

• 1/2 cup beef broth

• 1/4 cup melted butter

• 1 packet (1 oz) Italian dressing mix

• 7 cups frozen tater tots

Key Ingredients Breakdown

Lean Ground Beef

Using lean ground beef keeps this casserole filling without being too greasy. Make sure to drain any excess fat after browning.

Cream Cheese

The softened cream cheese adds a velvety texture and richness to the casserole, making every bite creamy and flavorful.

Cream of Mushroom Soup

A can of this classic ingredient provides a savory base that ties the beef and tater tots together beautifully.

Italian Dressing Mix

This packet adds a burst of herbs and seasonings, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

To get started, you’ll want to have the following kitchen tools handy:

• Large skillet

• Mixing bowls

• Wooden spoon or spatula

• 9×13-inch baking dish

• Oven

• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheating the Oven

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when you assemble your casserole.

2. Browning the Beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Be sure to break it apart as it cooks and drain off any excess fat.

3. Preparing the Creamy Sauce

In a separate mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, melted butter, and the Italian dressing mix. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.

4. Assembling the Casserole

Once the beef is cooked and the sauce is mixed, transfer the beef into the greased baking dish. Pour the creamy sauce over the beef and gently stir it together.

5. Adding Tater Tots as a Topping

Top the casserole with a generous layer of frozen tater tots, making sure to cover the entire surface evenly. This will ensure you get a crispy, golden topping after baking.

6. Baking and Serving

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy. Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for the Best Angel Beef Casserole

• Don’t skip draining the fat: This step is essential to avoid a greasy casserole.

• Use high-quality tater tots: For the crispiest topping, go with a brand you trust, and bake the casserole on the middle rack.

• Season to taste: Feel free to add extra seasoning like garlic powder, onion powder, or black pepper to the beef while it browns.

Variations and Recipe Swaps

• Vegetarian Version: Swap out the beef for a plant-based ground meat substitute, and use cream of celery soup instead of cream of mushroom for a twist.

• Spicy Casserole: Add diced jalapeños or sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce mixture for a little heat.

• Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded cheddar cheese into the beef and sauce mixture or sprinkle some on top before adding the tater tots for extra indulgence.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which is rare with a dish this good!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, simply pop a portion into the microwave for a couple of minutes, or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Food and Drink Pairings

This casserole pairs perfectly with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish. For drinks, a glass of iced tea or a light red wine like Pinot Noir complements the savory flavors wonderfully.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. Just add the tater tots and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Q2: Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely. Once it’s fully cooked, allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly and freezing it for up to 3 months.

Q3: What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
You can use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a slightly different flavor profile.

Q4: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, be sure to use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and Italian dressing mix.

Q5: Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Yes, feel free to add in some sautéed vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or peas for extra flavor and texture.