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Healthy Tater Tot Casserole with Beef and Lentils

Wholesome Healthy Tater Tot Casserole with Beef and Lentils

This Healthy Tater Tot Casserole with Beef and Lentils is a satisfying dish that combines delicious flavors with healthy ingredients.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 1 pound lean ground beef or turkey or chicken for a lighter option
  • 1 cup cooked lentils or substitute with cooked beans
  • 1 cup diced onions essential for flavor
  • 8 ounces chopped mushrooms enhances umami flavor
  • 2 tablespoons flour acts as a thickener
  • 2 cups low-sodium beef broth vegetable broth for vegetarian option
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (frozen) or fresh veggies for added crunch
  • 1 cup cauliflower rice optional for lowering carbs
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite cheese
For the Topping
  • 1 package tater tots the crispy topping

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • baking dish
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft and translucent.
  2. Once the onions are ready, add 1 pound of lean ground beef to the skillet. Cook for 8-10 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until it is browned and crumbly.
  3. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of avocado oil, followed by 8 ounces of chopped mushrooms. Sauté for 5 minutes until the mushrooms are softened.
  4. Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour, allowing it to cook for about 1 minute, then gradually add 2 cups of low-sodium beef broth, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
  5. Remove the skillet from heat and combine the onion-beef mixture with the mushroom sauce. Add 1 cup of cooked lentils, 2 cups of frozen mixed vegetables, and 1 cup of cauliflower rice.
  6. Stir until well combined, and fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese, spreading the mixture evenly into a greased baking dish.
  7. Arrange a layer of tater tots evenly over the filling in the baking dish, then sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots.
  8. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once heated, place the casserole in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes.
  9. After baking, allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or sliced green onions.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 650mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 8gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your family's preferences. Ideal for busy weeknights and gatherings.

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