Rick Nolan Hotdish Recipe The Best Hearty Dish You’ll Love

The Rick Nolan hotdish recipe is a beloved Minnesota comfort food known for its rich flavors and simple preparation. This dish brings together savory ground beef, creamy mushroom sauce, and crispy tater tots, creating a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Popularized in the Minnesota Congressional Hotdish Competition, this recipe has become a staple at family gatherings and potlucks. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and customizable to suit different tastes.

In this guide, you’ll find step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and creative variations to help you make the best Rick Nolan hotdish recipe at home. Whether you’re new to hotdish recipes or a seasoned cook, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Rick Nolan Hotdish Recipe

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• Author: Monica
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6-8 servings 1x

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Description

This Rick Nolan hotdish recipe is a true Minnesota comfort food classic, featuring a savory beef and vegetable filling, a rich, creamy mushroom sauce, and a crispy tater tot topping. Popularized in the Minnesota Congressional Hotdish Competition, this dish is easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for family gatherings and potlucks. With a golden-brown, cheesy crust and hearty layers beneath, this hotdish recipe delivers deliciousness in every bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and green beans)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup whole milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor

• 1 clove garlic, minced – Adds depth of flavor.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a smoky kick.
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – Enhances umami richness.
• ¼ cup sour cream – Makes the filling extra creamy.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles.
3. Stir in diced onions and garlic and cook for another 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
4. Drain any excess grease and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Filling

5. Add the frozen mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Pour in cream of mushroom soup, Worcestershire sauce, and milk. Stir until well combined.
7. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-5 minutes, letting the flavors blend together.

Step 3: Assemble the Hotdish

8. Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
9. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the filling.
10. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single, even layer on top.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

11. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
12. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

• For a healthier version, use ground turkey, low-fat cheese, and low-sodium soup.
• For a vegetarian option, replace ground beef with mushrooms or plant-based crumbles and use cream of celery soup instead of mushroom.
• For extra crispiness, broil the hotdish for 2-3 minutes after baking.
• For meal prep, store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: American (Midwestern)

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 portion (1/6 of the dish)
• Calories: 420 kcal
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 21g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: Rick Nolan hotdish recipe, tater tot hotdish, Minnesota hotdish, cheesy hotdish, easy casserole recipe

Why the Rick Nolan Hotdish Recipe is a Must-Try

Not all hotdishes are the same. Some are too dry, others too bland, but Rick Nolan’s hotdish strikes the perfect balance.

What Makes Rick Nolan hotdish recipe Special?

• Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples found in any home.
• One-dish meal: Easy preparation and minimal cleanup.
• Crispy, cheesy topping: The combination of tater tots and cheddar cheese creates a golden-brown crust.
• Midwest tradition: A dish that connects food, family, and community.
• Customizable: Easily adapted to different diets and flavor preferences.

For those who love home-cooked meals, check out this guide to making flavorful sauces that can enhance your hotdish experience.

Ingredients for the Best Rick Nolan Hotdish Recipe

To get the perfect balance of flavor and texture, gather the following key ingredients:

Main Ingredients for Rick Nolan hotdish recipe

• 1 pound of ground beef (or opt for ground turkey for a lighter choice).
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and green beans work best)
• A 10.5-ounce can of creamy mushroom soup.
• ½ cup whole milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 bag frozen tater tots
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor

• 1 clove garlic, minced – Adds a depth of flavor.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – Gives a smoky undertone.
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – Enhances umami flavors.
• ¼ cup sour cream – Makes the filling extra creamy.

Looking for the perfect side dish? Pair this with steamed chicken and vegetables for a well-balanced meal.

How to Make Rick Nolan Hotdish recipe

1: Preparing the Meat for Rick Nolan’s Hotdish recipe

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles, until it turns brown.
2. Add diced onion and garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant.
3. Drain excess grease and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

2: Creating the Perfect Creamy Filling for Your Rick Nolan Hotdish recipe

4. Stir in the frozen vegetables and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Add cream of mushroom soup, Worcestershire sauce, and milk. Mix until well combined.
6. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

3: Assemble the Hotdish

7. Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with grease.
8. Pour the meat and vegetable mixture into the dish, spreading evenly.
9. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
10. Spread the frozen tater tots evenly in a single layer.

4: Bake to Perfection

11. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
12. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Want to make sure your ingredients last longer? Read this guide on food storage.

Tips for the Best Hotdish

• Use high-quality tater tots for extra crispiness.
• Layer cheese under and over the tater tots for a richer taste.
• Don’t overbake—check at 35 minutes to avoid drying out the dish.
• Let it rest before serving to allow flavors to meld.

For more casserole inspiration, check out this collection of classic Midwest recipes.

Variations of Rick Nolan’s Hotdish

1. Healthier Hotdish

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
• Use low-fat cheese and low-sodium soup.
• Add fresh vegetables instead of frozen.

2. Vegetarian Hotdish

• Replace meat with mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based crumbles.
• Use cream of celery soup as a substitute for cream of mushroom soup.

3. Spicy Hotdish

• Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
• Use spicy pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.

To see how this dish compares to other classic tater tot hotdish recipes, visit The Spruce Eats.

How to Store & Reheat Hotdish

Refrigeration

• Keep leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days.

Freezing

• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

• Oven: Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes to restore crispiness.
• Heat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until fully warmed.

For more meal-prep ideas, read this guide on freezing and storing casseroles.

FAQs About Rick Nolan’s Hotdish recipe

1. What makes Rick Nolan’s hotdish different from other hotdishes?

It stays true to traditional Minnesota flavors while maintaining a perfect balance of creaminess, crispiness, and heartiness.

2. Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the hotdish a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

3. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh veggies work great but should be lightly sautéed first.

4. What’s the best meat substitute for this dish?

If avoiding beef, ground turkey, chicken, or sausage are excellent choices.

5. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free tater tots and gluten-free soup alternatives.

Final Thoughts

If you love classic Midwest comfort food, Rick Nolan’s hotdish is a must-try. It’s easy, delicious, and perfect for sharing.

Try it out and bring a taste of Minnesota tradition to your table.