What makes the Rick Nolan hotdish unique?

The Rick Nolan hotdish stands out for its perfect balance of traditional Midwest flavors and subtle creative twists, such as the option to add cheddar cheese and seasonings like garlic powder and paprika for added depth.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen ones?

Yes, you can substitute frozen vegetables with fresh ones. Just make sure to chop them evenly and lightly sauté or blanch them for consistent cooking.

What’s the best way to ensure a crispy tater tot topping?

Arrange the tater tots in a single, even layer and bake at the recommended temperature. For extra crispiness, you can broil the dish for 1–2 minutes at the end—just watch closely to prevent burning.

Can this recipe be made vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the ground beef with plant-based meat or sautéed mushrooms, and use a vegetarian cream of mushroom soup to keep it meat-free.

Rick Nolan Hotdish Recipe: Easy, Tasty, and Crowd-Pleasing

Description

This classic Rick Nolan hotdish recipe brings together the best of Midwestern comfort food. With ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, crispy tater tots, and colorful vegetables, this hearty dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, it’s sure to become a household favorite.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

1 medium onion, diced (optional)

2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

1 bag (32 oz) tater tots

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tbsp vegetable oil or butter

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add oil or butter, then cook the ground beef and diced onion (if using). Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
In a large bowl, mix the cooked ground beef, thawed frozen vegetables, and cream of mushroom soup. Stir until well combined.
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom.
Optional: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
Arrange tater tots in a single layer on top, covering the entire dish.
Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the tater tots are golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Let the hotdish rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free tater tots and cream of mushroom soup.
Add more vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, for extra nutrients.
Adjust seasoning to taste. A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a slight kick.
This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion (1/6 of recipe)
Calories: 420 kcal
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 900mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Rick Nolan hotdish recipe, hotdish recipe, Midwestern hotdish, tater tot casserole, easy comfort food