Angel Beef Casserole

by

Angel Beef Casserole: A Comforting and Hearty Family Favorite

If you’re in the mood for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s simple to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table, look no further than Angel Beef Casserole. This dish combines the rich flavors of ground beef, a creamy sauce, and crispy tater tots for a comfort food experience that hits all the right notes. It’s an easy recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or any time you crave a warm, filling meal.

Why You’ll Love Angel Beef Casserole

This casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a meal that the whole family will enjoy. The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with the ground beef, while the tater tots on top provide a crispy texture that contrasts perfectly with the rich, savory filling. It’s a dish that combines comfort with simplicity, making it a great go-to for busy nights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 2 lbs lean ground beef – The main protein of this dish. Lean beef ensures the casserole isn’t greasy and provides a satisfying base.
  • 8 oz cream cheese (softened) – Adds a creamy richness to the sauce.
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – A pantry staple that gives the casserole its creamy texture and earthy flavor.
  • 1/2 cup beef broth – This adds moisture and depth to the creamy sauce.
  • 1/4 cup melted butter – Richness and flavor that enhances the overall dish.
  • 1 packet (1 oz) Italian dressing mix – A flavorful seasoning mix that brings a hint of Italian herbs and tanginess to the casserole.
  • 7 cups frozen tater tots – The topping that adds crunch and makes this casserole a crowd favorite.

Instructions: How to Make Angel Beef Casserole

Follow these simple steps to make a delicious Angel Beef Casserole that’s sure to be a hit at your next meal.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole cooks evenly and reaches the perfect temperature. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray, butter, or oil to prevent the casserole from sticking.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat over medium heat and cook the ground beef. Break it apart as it cooks, stirring occasionally to ensure the beef cooks evenly. Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet. This step helps avoid excess grease in your casserole and ensures a leaner dish.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, melted butter, and Italian dressing mix. Stir the ingredients together until they are completely smooth and well incorporated. The cream cheese should be softened to make this process easier, and the soup will help create the base of the creamy sauce.

Step 4: Combine the Beef and Sauce

Once the ground beef is cooked and drained, add it to the creamy sauce mixture. Stir until the beef is evenly coated in the sauce. This will ensure every bite of the casserole has that rich, creamy flavor.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the beef and creamy sauce mixture into your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This layer will serve as the flavorful base of your casserole.

Step 6: Add the Tater Tots

Take the frozen tater tots and arrange them on top of the beef mixture in a single layer. This will form the crispy topping that gives the casserole its signature texture. There’s no need to thaw the tater tots first; just place them directly on top, and they’ll bake to golden perfection.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy. The creamy beef mixture should be bubbling around the edges, and the tots will have a beautiful crisp texture on top.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the casserole is finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice it into squares and serve this comforting dish to your family and friends.

Why This Casserole is a Family Favorite

1. A Perfect Balance of Flavors and Textures

One of the best things about Angel Beef Casserole is its balance of flavors and textures. The rich, creamy beef mixture contrasts beautifully with the crispy tater tots on top. The beef broth and cream cheese give the dish a smooth, velvety texture, while the frozen tater tots bake to a crispy, golden perfection, creating a satisfying contrast.

2. Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

With only 7 ingredients, this casserole is an easy choice for anyone looking to make a filling meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The use of cream of mushroom soup, cream cheese, and beef broth creates a rich sauce that is packed with flavor, while the Italian dressing mix adds a subtle but irresistible tang.

3. A One-Dish Meal

This casserole is a one-dish meal, making it perfect for busy families. The beef and creamy sauce serve as the main course, while the tater tots provide a delicious, crispy topping. You don’t need to worry about making side dishes—it’s all included in one easy-to-bake casserole.

4. Crowd-Pleaser

Whether you’re serving it to your family for dinner or bringing it to a potluck, Angel Beef Casserole is a dish that always gets rave reviews. The combination of flavors is universally loved, and the crispy tater tots make it a fun, comforting meal that everyone can enjoy.

5. Versatile and Customizable

Though this recipe is delicious as written, it’s also incredibly versatile. You can easily add vegetables, like frozen peas or corn, to the beef mixture for a bit of extra flavor and nutrition. You could also experiment with different types of cheese or even swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken soup if you prefer. The options are endless!

Tips for Making the Best Angel Beef Casserole

  • Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease in the casserole. If you use fattier beef, make sure to drain it well before adding it to the sauce.
  • Don’t thaw the tater tots before adding them to the casserole. They cook best straight from the freezer, allowing them to crisp up nicely on top.
  • Mix in some vegetables if you’d like to make this casserole even heartier. Frozen peas, carrots, or even green beans can be added to the beef mixture for extra nutrition.
  • Top with cheese for an extra indulgent touch. After the casserole is done baking, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top and return it to the oven for a few more minutes to melt and brown the cheese.

Conclusion

Angel Beef Casserole is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy nights when you want a satisfying meal without the fuss. With its creamy beef filling and crispy tater tot topping, this casserole is a guaranteed hit with family and friends. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Enjoy this classic dish, and feel free to make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients!

Leave a Comment