Introduction

This Dairy Free Tater Tot Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners. Made with ground turkey or beef and a mix of vegetables, it’s topped with crispy gluten-free tater tots for a satisfying crunch. Plus, it uses coconut milk instead of dairy, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

This dish features a white bowl filled with a layered tater tot casserole. The bottom layer is a thick, rich brown meat sauce with visible spices. On top of this are golden, crispy tater tots placed evenly to cover the sauce. Melted light yellow cheese is spread over the tater tots, partially soaked into them, adding a gooey texture. The entire dish is sprinkled with chopped fresh green parsley, adding a bright contrast to the warm tones. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey or beef

1 medium onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 red bell pepper, chopped

1 cup frozen corn

1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, etc.)

1 can (15 oz) coconut milk

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt, to taste

Pepper, to taste

32 oz frozen tater tots (gluten-free)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).

Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground turkey or beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent.

Step 4: Stir in the red bell pepper, corn, mixed vegetables, coconut milk, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until heated through and well combined.

Step 5: Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 6: Top the mixture with the frozen tater tots, arranging them in a single layer.

Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.

Step 8: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture.

Use ground chicken as a lighter alternative to turkey or beef.

Swap frozen vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand.

Make it vegetarian by substituting the meat with cooked lentils or a plant-based meat substitute.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and bake it fresh when ready to serve.

Are the tater tots really gluten-free?

Make sure to check the packaging of the tater tots you purchase, as gluten-free options are available but not all brands are guaranteed gluten-free.

Dinner

Dairy-Free Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Turkey and Vegetables Recipe