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+ servings
Alt Text: Tim Walz Hotdish freshly baked, showcasing crispy tater tots on top in a rustic baking dish.

Tim Walz Hot dish recipe

A comforting, flavorful casserole featuring ground turkey, savory vegetables, a creamy cheese sauce, and crispy tater tots, making it a Minnesota classic that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight meal.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course casseroles, comfort food, Main Course
Cuisine American, Midwestern
Servings 6 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • skillt
  • mixing bowl

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 cup frozen green beans
  • 1 cup frozen mushrooms
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 can cream of mushroom soup or substitute with a gluten-free version
  • 1 package frozen tater tots
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon paprika optional, for added flavor

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Cook the Ground Turkey: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until fragrant. Add the ground turkey, salt, and pepper, and cook until browned.
  • Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup with half of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Stir until smooth.
  • Layer the Hotdish: In a 9x13-inch baking dish, layer the cooked turkey mixture, followed by the green beans and mushrooms. Pour the cheese sauce over the top and spread it evenly.
  • Top with Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots on top in a single layer, covering the entire casserole.
  • Bake the Hotdish: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
  • Rest the Hotdish: Let the hotdish rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Notes

  • Make Ahead: You can assemble the hotdish ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
  • Freezing: To freeze, assemble the casserole without baking, then wrap it tightly and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
  • Vegetable Variations: Feel free to use fresh vegetables instead of frozen if you prefer. You can also add more vegetables, like peas or carrots, for added nutrition.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcal
Keyword big mac tater tot casserole, Ground Turkey Hotdish, Hotdish Recipe, Minnesota Hotdish, Tim Walz Hotdish
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