Description

If you’re looking for a dish that packs a punch with every bite, this Secret Ingredient Casserole is just what you need. The secret? It’s all in the ingredients! This casserole brings together simple, wholesome elements that combine to create a comforting, flavorful meal perfect for any occasion. Whether it's a family dinner or a special gathering, this dish is guaranteed to impress

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef or ground turkey
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (the secret ingredient!)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3 cups frozen tater tots or hash browns
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Preparation Method

Step 01: Cook the ground meat

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until fully browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the meat and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder, stirring well to combine.
Step 02: Prepare the creamy mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 03: Assemble the casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spread the cooked meat mixture evenly over the bottom.
Pour the creamy soup mixture over the meat layer and smooth it out with a spatula.
Arrange the frozen tater tots or hash browns in a single layer on top of the creamy mixture.
Step 04: Add the cheese topping

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the tater tots or hash browns.
Step 05: Bake the casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Step 06: Serve and enjoy

Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serve hot and enjoy the incredible flavors of this Secret Ingredient Casserole!

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip:

For an extra kick, try adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy mixture. If you want to add some veggies, frozen peas or green beans mix well into the ground meat for added texture and nutrition. And don’t forget: the smoked paprika is key in giving this dish its distinctive, smoky flavor.

Conclusion:

This Secret Ingredient Casserole is a true comfort food dish, packed with flavors that will have everyone guessing what makes it so delicious. The smoked paprika adds a smoky depth to the casserole, while the creamy soup and cheesy tater tots bring it all together. It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing meal perfect for any night of the week. Try it out and enjoy the rich, hearty flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds!