Hobo Casserole Ground Beef (Printable Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Main Components

01 - 450 grams ground beef
02 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 300 grams frozen mixed vegetables
05 - 305 grams condensed cream of mushroom soup
06 - 60 millilitres water
07 - 300 grams frozen tater tots

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Set the oven to 190°C to ensure even and consistent baking.
02 - Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until no longer pink and well browned.
03 - Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with browned beef. Continue to cook until onion turns translucent and garlic is fragrant.
04 - Stir in frozen mixed vegetables, condensed cream of mushroom soup, and water. Mix thoroughly and let simmer for 5 minutes so flavours meld.
05 - Pour the beef and vegetable mixture into a 23x33 cm baking dish. Spread evenly to create a uniform base.
06 - Arrange frozen tater tots evenly over the beef mixture in a single layer for optimal crispness.
07 - Transfer the dish to the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until tater tots are crisp and golden brown.
08 - Remove from the oven and serve hot, portioning generous helpings of the casserole while maintaining the crispy potato topping.

# Helpful Notes:

01 - Browning beef with onions and garlic creates depth of flavour; for extra richness, layer shredded cheese onto tater tots during the last 10 minutes of baking.
02 - Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for 1 month.
03 - Customize by substituting alternative condensed soups such as cream of chicken or celery.
04 - For a speedier preparation, substitute with fresh chopped vegetables.