Delicious Angel Beef Casserole

Delicious Angel Beef Casserole is a rich, comforting dish combining seasoned ground beef with a creamy sauce and crispy tater tots. It’s perfect for busy nights, make-ahead meals, or potlucks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy, cheesy, and crispy all in one dish
• Quick to assemble with common pantry staples
• Family-friendly and perfect for batch cooking
• Customizable with veggies, cheeses, or alternative proteins
• Freezer-friendly for easy meal planning

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 pounds lean ground beef
• 4 ounces mushrooms (optional)
• 1 teaspoon each: salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning
• Pinch of smoked paprika
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup milk or beef broth
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 7 cups frozen tater tots
• ¼ cup shredded Parmesan or cheddar cheese (optional)

directions

1. Preheat oven to 400–425°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef with optional mushrooms and seasonings until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in softened cream cheese and milk (or broth). Mix until smooth. If needed, stir in a cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce.
4. Spread the beef mixture in the prepared baking dish.
5. Arrange tater tots evenly on top.
6. Bake for 25–35 minutes until the tots are golden and crisp. For extra crispness, rotate the dish halfway through baking.
7. Optional: Sprinkle cheese over the top and return to oven for 1–2 more minutes.
8. Let sit for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6–8
• Prep time: 15–20 minutes
• Cook time: 25–35 minutes
• Total time: 45–55 minutes

Variations

• Swap beef for ground turkey or plant-based crumbles
• Add veggies like peas, spinach, or bell peppers
• Use cream of mushroom or celery soup instead of cream cheese
• Spice it up with chili flakes or jalapeños
• Use an air fryer lid or Instant Pot for a quicker finish

storage/reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Freeze assembled casserole for up to 2 months
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave with a splash of broth to prevent drying

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate up to a day in advance. Bake just before serving.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Absolutely. Freeze it unbaked or baked. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Can I skip the cream cheese?

Yes, substitute with cream of mushroom, cream of chicken, or a homemade béchamel.

How do I make it spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture.

Can I add vegetables?

Definitely. Stir in corn, peas, chopped spinach, or bell peppers before baking.

What cheese is best for topping?

Parmesan, cheddar, or a blend of Mexican cheeses all work well.

How do I get crispy tater tots?

Bake uncovered at high heat and rotate the dish halfway through. Avoid overcrowding the tots.

Can I use an Instant Pot?

You can cook the meat in an Instant Pot and finish with a CrispLid for a crispy topping.

What sides go well with this casserole?

Serve with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use two baking dishes or one larger roasting pan if feeding a crowd.

Conclusion

Delicious Angel Beef Casserole is everything you want in a hearty family meal—creamy, savory, and perfectly crispy on top. Whether you’re cooking for the week or feeding a crowd, this casserole is sure to impress with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

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