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If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that blends creamy, savory beef with the irresistible crispiness of tater tots, you’re going to adore this Angel Beef Casserole Recipe. This hearty casserole is the perfect balance of rich flavors and satisfying textures, making it an ideal meal for family dinners or gathering with friends. With its layers of tender ground beef, cheesy mushroom sauce, and golden tater tots on top, the Angel Beef Casserole Recipe is sure to become your new go-to comfort food classic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple yet essential ingredients come together to create a casserole that’s both flavorful and comforting. Each one plays a critical role: the beef brings hearty richness, the creamy elements add luscious texture, and the tater tots provide that perfect golden crunch.
- 7 cups frozen tater tots: The crispy topping that adds that iconic crunchy texture everyone loves.
- 1/4 cup butter, melted: Introduces a silky richness and helps meld the flavors together.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Creamy base that ties the casserole elements into a smooth, savory sauce.
- 8 oz softened cream cheese: Adds velvety creaminess and a gentle tang.
- 2 lbs lean ground beef: The hearty, flavorful protein that makes this dish so satisfying.
- 1 packet (1 oz) Italian dressing mix: Brings a punch of zesty herbs and spices for extra depth.
- 1/2 cup beef broth: Keeps the casserole moist and full of rich beefy flavor.
How to Make Angel Beef Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Brown the Beef
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you need it. Meanwhile, cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it up as it browns. Cooking it thoroughly ensures a rich, meaty foundation while draining excess grease keeps your casserole from becoming too heavy.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the Italian dressing mix, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, melted butter, and softened cream cheese. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended, forming a luscious sauce that will coat every bite with savory goodness.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Place the cooked beef in a greased baking pan, then pour the creamy sauce over the meat. Toss gently to evenly coat all the beef pieces in that flavorful mixture, guaranteeing every forkful is bursting with taste.
Step 4: Add the Tater Tot Topping
Spread the frozen tater tots evenly across the top of the casserole, making sure they cover all the beef and sauce beneath. This layer is vital, as it will crisp up in the oven and provide that addictive crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender filling.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Pop the assembled dish into your preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the tater tots have turned a crispy, golden brown. Allow the casserole to cool a couple of minutes before serving so it sets perfectly and you don’t lose any of that delicious sauce.
How to Serve Angel Beef Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the casserole’s presentation, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top for a burst of color and freshness. A dollop of sour cream can add a tangy contrast, balancing the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp green vegetables like steamed broccoli or a simple mixed green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. The freshness helps cut through the creamy heft, making each bite more balanced and enjoyable.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Angel Beef Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets. This adds a rustic charm and allows each guest to have their own personal portion, which makes the experience feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it perfect for meal prep or for enjoying a comforting second helping later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the Angel Beef Casserole Recipe before baking—just assemble it in a freezer-safe dish and cover tightly with foil. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as usual.
Reheating
Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes to restore that crispy tater tot topping and bubbly creamy interior. Microwaving is also an option for a quicker reheat but may soften the tots.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen tater tots?
While fresh potatoes can work, tater tots are recommended because they provide a signature crispy texture that fresh potatoes don’t achieve as easily. You’d need to par-cook and season fresh potatoes thoroughly to substitute convincingly.
Is this casserole suitable for a crowd?
Absolutely! The Angel Beef Casserole Recipe yields about 6 generous servings, making it ideal for family gatherings or potlucks. You can easily double the recipe for larger groups.
Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef?
You can, but the deep savory flavor of beef lends this dish its signature richness. Ground turkey or chicken will result in a lighter casserole but still delicious—just adjust seasoning as needed.
What can I add to make this recipe spicier?
Adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the beef mixture before baking adds a nice kick without overpowering the creamy balance of the casserole.
Can I prepare part of this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook and brown the beef, as well as make the sauce a day before, then assemble and bake when you’re ready. This is a great timesaver for busy weeknights.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with the Angel Beef Casserole Recipe. It combines simple ingredients into a warm, inviting dish that feels like a hug on a plate. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a special family dinner, it’s guaranteed to please everyone around the table. So go ahead, give this recipe a try—you might just find your new comfort food favorite.
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Angel Beef Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 Minutes
- Cook Time: 45 Minutes
- Total Time: 60 Minutes
- Yield: 6 Servings
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious Angel Beef Casserole is a creamy and comforting American main dish featuring browned ground beef blended with a savory mushroom and Italian dressing sauce, all topped with crispy golden tater tots. Perfect for a family meal or feeding a crowd, this casserole combines rich creamy textures with a satisfying crunch for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 2 lbs lean ground beef
- 1 packet (1 oz) Italian dressing mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 8 oz softened cream cheese
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
Topping
- 7 cups frozen tater tots
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready once the casserole is assembled.
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks, until fully browned. Drain off any excess grease once cooked.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the Italian dressing mix, cream of mushroom soup, softened cream cheese, beef broth, and melted butter. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Mix Beef and Sauce: Transfer the cooked beef into a greased baking pan. Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and gently mix to coat everything evenly.
- Add Tater Tots: Spread the frozen tater tots evenly over the top of the beef and sauce mixture, covering all the beef completely with a uniform layer.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes until the tater tots are crispy and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a minute or two before serving to let it set slightly and make serving easier.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and keep the casserole rich but not greasy.
- Make sure to soften the cream cheese before mixing for a smooth sauce texture.
- You can substitute Italian dressing mix with homemade Italian seasoning if preferred.
- Tater tots can be substituted with frozen hash browns for a slightly different texture.
- Letting the casserole rest after baking enhances flavor melding and makes it easier to serve.
