There’s nothing quite like a comforting dish that brings the whole family together, and our Vegetarian Tater Tot Casserole does exactly that. This dish is a delightful medley of fresh vegetables, hearty tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese, all crowned with crispy, golden tater tots. Perfect for busy weeknights or a special family gathering, this casserole is a testament to how creative and delicious vegetarian meals can be. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the bounties of the season while creating lasting memories around the dinner table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (24-ounce) jar of your favorite tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (32-ounce) bag frozen tater tots
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the bell pepper, zucchini, and corn. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the black beans, tomato sauce, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and let simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Pour the vegetable mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Arrange the tater tots in a single layer over the cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are crispy and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro before serving.
Helpful Tips
For a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vegetable mixture. You can also substitute the zucchini with carrots or your favorite squash for a different twist.
This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. Simply cover with foil and bake as directed when ready to serve.
Pairings
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad and a simple vinaigrette. For a refreshing drink, try serving it with a cold glass of iced tea or a light, fruit-forward white wine.
Thank you for joining us in making this delicious Vegetarian Tater Tot Casserole! We hope it brings warmth and joy to your family meals. Don’t forget to share your creations with us using #ZynahzRecipes on Instagram, or tag us directly. We would love to hear your feedback on our website Zynahz. Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and follow us on social media for more inspiring recipes and kitchen tips!