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.

Ingredients

Scale

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.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

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

Step 2: Make the Creamy Filling

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

Step 3: Assemble the Hotdish

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

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
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