Church Supper Hot Dish (Minnesota Classic Casserole)
A hearty, comforting Midwestern staple, this hot dish (aka casserole) is a crowd-pleaser at potlucks, church suppers, and family dinners. Think creamy, savory, and packed with nostalgia!
Ingredients
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1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (or homemade)
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1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup (or sub another mushroom)
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1 cup milk (or half & half for richness)
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1 (16 oz) bag frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
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4 cups frozen tater tots (the iconic topping!)
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1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
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1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
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½ tsp paprika
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Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Brown the Meat
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until meat is browned. Drain excess fat.
2️⃣ Mix the Filling
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Stir in both soups, milk, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt & pepper.
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Fold in frozen veggies and simmer for 3-4 mins.
3️⃣ Layer & Top
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Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Arrange tater tots in even rows over the top.
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Sprinkle cheddar cheese generously.
4️⃣ Bake & Bubble
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Bake uncovered for 35-40 mins until tots are crispy and filling is bubbly.
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Broil 1-2 mins for extra browning (optional).
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!
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Let rest 5 mins, then scoop into bowls.
Tips & Variations
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Make Ahead: Assemble (unbaked) and refrigerate overnight.
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Crunchier Topping? Use crispy crowns instead of classic tots.
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Lighter Twist: Swap beef for turkey, use low-sodium soup, and add fresh veggies.
Fun Fact: In Minnesota, it’s always called “hot dish”—never “casserole”! This dish is a potluck legend for good reason.
Perfect with a side of buttered dinner rolls or a simple green salad. 🥔🍲
Vegetarian? Use plant-based ground “meat” and cream of celery soup!
