"New" Tater Tots Cassarole

Tater tot cassaroles come in many flavors and varieties. They are traditional fare at gatherings all over the Southeastern states. I took a typical, basic recipe and spiffed it up a little!

Tater Tot Cassarole

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

8 oz sour cream
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1 8 oz block of cream cheese, room temp
1 cup of milk
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt
Mix these together and set aside.

2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
1 medium onion, chopped
2-3 cloves of garlic, chopped
1 poblano or similar pepper, chopped
2-4 tomatillos, chopped
1 pound hamburger
1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 Tbsp Chili 3000
1 Tbsp adobo
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp or more, salt (to taste)

In a large skillet, heat EVOO over medium heat and add onions, garlic, pepper, and tomatillos. Cook until tender, then add the hamburger. Saute until the hamburger is no longer pink, and stir in spices, salt and pepper. Combine with the sour cream mixture. Layer this mix into the bottom of a cassarole dish, and top with:

1 bag frozen tater tots

Bake at 350 for 45-60 minutes. Sprinkle with cheese for the last 10 minutes if desired.

Easy veggie booster - add a can of peas, broccoli, diced tomatoes, or shredded carrots when you mix the sour cream mixture into the meat.