Angel Beef Casserole Recipe

This Angel Beef Casserole brings comfort food to a whole new level with its creamy sauce and crispy tater tot topping. It's the dish I reach for when I need something foolproof that will satisfy everyone at the table, from picky eaters to those with hearty appetites.

I first made this casserole during a particularly hectic week when my in laws were visiting. It was such a hit that it has now become our go to meal whenever family comes over. Even my father in law who claims to be a culinary expert requested the recipe.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Choose lean 90/10 for best flavor without excess grease
• Cream cheese: The secret ingredient that creates an irresistibly creamy texture
• Cream of mushroom soup: Provides depth and umami flavor to the sauce
• Beef broth: Enhances the meaty flavor throughout the dish
• Butter: Adds richness that ties all the flavors together
• Italian dressing mix: This powerhouse seasoning eliminates the need for multiple spice jars
• Frozen tater tots: Look for the extra crispy variety for best texture contrast

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 350°F and allow it to fully preheat while you prepare the other components. This ensures even cooking throughout your casserole and helps achieve that perfect golden top. A properly preheated oven makes all the difference between soggy and crispy tater tots.

Brown the Beef:

Add your ground beef to a large skillet over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon to break it into small crumbles as it cooks. Cook until no pink remains about 7 to 8 minutes. Drain thoroughly to remove excess fat which prevents your casserole from becoming greasy. I like to press the meat with paper towels for extra fat removal.

Create the Creamy Sauce:

In a mixing bowl combine the softened cream cheese this must be truly soft for proper blending with cream of mushroom soup beef broth melted butter and Italian dressing mix. Whisk vigorously until completely smooth with no cream cheese lumps remaining. The sauce should have a pourable but thick consistency. If too thick add a splash more broth.

Assemble the Base:

Transfer your drained ground beef to a 9x13 inch baking dish spreading it in an even layer. Pour your creamy sauce mixture over the beef and gently fold together until completely incorporated. Ensure the sauce reaches all corners of the dish for consistent flavor in every bite.

Apply the Tater Tot Topping:

Arrange frozen tater tots in neat rows covering the entire surface of the casserole. Pack them closely together for the most appealing presentation and even cooking. This crispy layer provides wonderful textural contrast to the creamy beef mixture below.

Bake to Golden Perfection:

Place your assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Look for deeply golden brown tater tots and bubbling edges as indicators of doneness. Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors settle and make serving easier.

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The Italian dressing mix is my absolute favorite component of this recipe. While it might seem like an unusual addition I discovered it by accident when I was out of my usual seasonings during a snowstorm. Now I would never make this casserole without it the tangy herbs and spices create a depth of flavor that basic salt and pepper simply cannot achieve.

Make Ahead Magic

This casserole truly shines as a prepare ahead meal. You can completely assemble it up to 24 hours before baking simply cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to cook remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking to take the chill off and add about 10 minutes to the baking time. This has saved my weeknight dinner routine countless times.

Versatile Variations

The beauty of this Angel Beef Casserole lies in its adaptability. Try substituting ground turkey for a lighter option or add a cup of sautéed mushrooms for extra umami flavor. For a spicy twist mix in a can of diced green chiles or a tablespoon of taco seasoning instead of the Italian mix. My family particularly enjoys the addition of a cup of corn kernels for sweetness and color.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a complete meal serve alongside steamed broccoli or green beans. A dollop of sour cream on top adds a pleasant tang that complements the creamy sauce perfectly. If serving for company a sprinkle of fresh chives adds visual appeal and a mild onion flavor.

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This casserole is the ultimate comfort meal for any occasion—wholesome, flavorful, and so easy to prepare.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef. Keep in mind that it may have a lighter flavor, but the creamy sauce will still complement the dish nicely.

→ What other toppings can I use besides tater tots?

While tater tots provide a crispy topping, you can also use mashed potatoes, crushed crackers, or shredded hash browns for a unique twist.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole without baking it. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, then bake it when you’re ready to serve.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days, and reheat in the oven to maintain its crispiness.

→ Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Yes, you can mix in vegetables like peas, carrots, or green beans with the beef layer for added texture and nutrition.