Tater Tot Shepherd Pie

This Tater Tot Shepherd Pie is made with savory ground meat, flavorful vegetables, and rich gravy, all topped with crispy golden tater tots.

Have you ever thought about combining the crispy joy of tater tots with the hearty, savory goodness of shepherd’s pie? I know I have! Let me introduce you to Tater Tot Shepherd’s Pie!

This dish layers seasoned ground meat and veggies, topped with golden brown tater tots and melted cheese, creating a perfect blend of textures and flavors.

It’s a fun, easy recipe that turns a traditional meal into a yummy comfort food experience for the whole family. And with such a simple recipe, you can make it on any busy weeknight you have in mind!

Tater Tot Shepherd’s Pie is more than just a meal; it’s a comfort food experience that brings a smile with every bite.

Whether you’re making it for the first time or adding it to your regular dinner rotation, this easy recipe brings a deliciously satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

So, gather your ingredients, and let’s turn this classic comfort food into a fun and flavorful feast that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Common Questions About Tater Tot Shepherd’s Pie

Can I Use Different Types of Meat?

Yes! While ground beef or lamb is traditional, feel free to use ground turkey or even a meat substitute for a vegetarian version. Each brings its unique flavor to this hearty casserole. In the end, it’s all about what tastes good to you. Am I right?

Can I Make It Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole dish up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate. When you’re ready, bake it according to the recipe, adding a few extra minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

This is a great way to save time on the day you’re wanting to serve it.

Is This Dish Kid-Friendly?

With its combination of ground meat, melty cheese, vegetables, and tater tots, this shepherd’s pie is a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s an easy way to serve a meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.

Storage

I really love shepherd’s pie as leftovers. It tastes just as good the next day and it’s great for lunches or snacks or whatever!

Refrigerator

Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.

Freezer

Wrap the casserole dish well and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Tips

That layer of tater tots really adds something to the classic shepherd’s pie. Who doesn’t love tater tots? It’s a combo that was made to happen.

• Use a large skillet for even cooking of the meat and veggie mixture.
• Spread the meat mixture in a single layer in the baking dish for uniform cooking.
• Arrange tater tots in a single layer on top to ensure they cook to a golden-brown perfection.
• For a cheesier experience, add more shredded cheddar cheese on top before baking.
• Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking for easier serving.

Ingredients

This is one of those hearty ground beef casseroles that every family should have in their recipe box. It’s just plain tasty and satisfying!

• Ground beef or lamb
• Carrots
• Onion
• Garlic cloves
• Beef or vegetable broth
• Frozen peas
• Tomato paste
• Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper
• Frozen Tater tots
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley (optional)

How to Make Tater Tot Shepherd’s Pie

I like using a cast iron skillet to brown my hamburger. Is it just me, or does everything taste better when you cook it on cast iron?

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or lamb until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Add the chopped carrots, onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the broth, frozen peas, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
5. Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture into a baking dish. Spread it evenly.
6. Arrange the tater tots on top of the meat mixture in a single layer, covering it completely.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the tater tots turn golden and crispy.
8. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots and return the dish to the oven. Bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving.

Kitchen Supplies You’ll Need for Tater Tot Shepherd’s Pie

This might be the easiest way to make shepherd’s pie, and it’s got all the flavor. Compare it to a traditional shepherd’s pie and tell me what you think!

• Large skillet
• Casserole dish or baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and knife

What to Serve With Tater Tot Shepherd’s Pie

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but a simple green salad or some steamed green beans on the side can add a fresh contrast to the hearty casserole. You could also opt for some kind of buttery biscuit to round things out even more!

Why You Should Make Tater Tot Shepherd’s Pie

My kids love tater tots, so this one is a no-brainer for me. Mix them in with all those veggies and beef and you’ve got yourself a tasty, healthy, hearty meal!

• It’s a delicious twist on traditional shepherd’s pie.
• Perfect for busy nights with less work involved.
• A fun way to include veggies in a kid-friendly dish.
• Ideal for using up leftovers, like that extra ground beef or veggies in the fridge.
• A great make-ahead meal for those hectic days.

Variations and Add-Ins for Tater Tot Shepherd’s Pie

Let me know in the comments if you tweak this recipe at all. I love hearing about all the great ideas you guys come up with!

• Try a layer of cream of mushroom soup for a creamy twist.
• Mix in some garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.
• Add a splash of red wine to the beef broth mixture for depth.
• Use a mix of sweet potato and regular tater tots for a colorful top layer.
• Sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the meat mixture for a burst of freshness.

If you love this easy Irish casserole recipe, you’re going to love these other recipes to make on St. Patrick’s Day too. Please click each link below to find the easy, printable recipe!

More Great Casseroles

Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

Chicken Noodle Casserole

Tater Tot Casserole

Easy Potato Casserole

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