The Turkey Tater Tot Hot Dish is a comforting and hearty casserole that combines ground turkey, vegetables, and crispy tater tots, all enveloped in a creamy sauce. This dish is a modern twist on a classic comfort food, offering a lighter alternative by using lean ground turkey. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you crave a warm, satisfying meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cups sliced brown mushrooms
2 teaspoons kosher salt, or to taste
1 cup chopped onion
2 pounds ground turkey
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1 pinch cayenne pepper
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 (16-ounce) package frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, green beans, corn)
1 (32-ounce) package frozen tater tots
1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese

Directions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Cook Mushrooms: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter with olive oil. Add sliced mushrooms and a pinch of salt; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and become golden brown, about 10 minutes.
Add Onions and Turkey: Stir in chopped onions and cook until translucent, approximately 5 minutes. Add ground turkey, breaking it apart as it cooks, until browned and no longer pink, about 7 minutes.
Season the Mixture: Season with black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and remaining salt. Mix well to combine.
Incorporate Flour: Sprinkle flour over the turkey mixture, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
Add Liquids: Gradually pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and begins to simmer.
Flavor Enhancements: Stir in Worcestershire sauce and frozen mixed vegetables. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to heat through.
Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the turkey and vegetable mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the mixture.
Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
Add Cheese: Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese over the tater tots. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Allow the hot dish to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Nutritional Facts

Calories: 450 per serving
Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 110mg
Sodium: 980mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 3g
Protein: 22g
Vitamin A: 15% DV
Vitamin C: 10% DV
Calcium: 20% DV
Iron: 15% DV

The History of Hot Dish

Hot dish is a classic Midwestern comfort food that originated in Minnesota and became a staple across the region. Traditionally, it consists of a protein, a starch (such as potatoes or pasta), a creamy sauce, and a vegetable component. It was originally created as an easy and affordable way to feed large families using simple pantry staples.

Over time, many variations of hot dish have emerged, and while the classic version often features ground beef, turkey has become a popular alternative for a leaner, healthier option. The Turkey Tater Tot Hot Dish maintains all the flavors of the original but with a slightly lighter twist.

Why Turkey is a Great Choice for This Dish

Many hot dish recipes use ground beef, but turkey offers several advantages:

Leaner Alternative – Ground turkey has less fat compared to ground beef, making this dish a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
Mild Flavor – Turkey’s mild taste absorbs seasonings well, making it a versatile protein choice.
Lower in Calories – If you’re looking for a lighter dish, ground turkey is lower in calories while still providing plenty of protein.
Heart-Healthy Option – Turkey contains less saturated fat than beef, making it a good choice for those watching their heart health.

Why This Dish is a Family Favorite

The Turkey Tater Tot Hot Dish is a dish that everyone loves. Here’s why it has become a staple in many households:

Easy to Make – This recipe requires minimal prep work, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Budget-Friendly – The ingredients are simple, affordable, and easily available.
One-Pan Meal – This dish has protein, vegetables, and starch all in one, making it a complete meal with little need for additional sides.
Great for Meal Prep – It stores well, making it an excellent choice for leftovers.
Kid-Friendly – The crispy tater tots and cheesy topping make it appealing to kids and adults alike.

Best Vegetables to Use in This Recipe

One of the best things about this dish is its versatility when it comes to vegetables. Here are some of the best options to include:

Frozen Mixed Vegetables – Peas, carrots, green beans, and corn add color and nutrition.
Mushrooms – Give the dish a rich, earthy depth of flavor.
Bell Peppers – Add a subtle sweetness and a bit of crunch.
Spinach or Kale – A great way to add extra greens without altering the overall taste.
Onions and Garlic – Enhance the overall depth of flavor with their natural sweetness.

Different Variations to Try

If you want to put your own twist on this dish, here are some fun variations:

Spicy Version – Add diced jalapeños, a dash of cayenne pepper, or a few drops of hot sauce to the turkey mixture.
Southwestern Style – Mix in black beans, diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning for a Tex-Mex-inspired dish.
Creamy Ranch Flavor – Stir in a packet of ranch seasoning to give the dish a tangy twist.
BBQ-Inspired Hot Dish – Add a drizzle of barbecue sauce for a smoky, sweet touch.
Cheeseburger Style – Swap out turkey for ground beef, add pickles, and top with shredded cheddar cheese for a cheeseburger-inspired version.

Best Cheeses to Use

The cheesy topping is one of the best parts of this dish. While sharp Cheddar is a popular choice, here are some other great options:

Monterey Jack – Offers a mild, creamy flavor that melts beautifully.
Pepper Jack – Adds a bit of spice for those who like a kick.
Colby Cheese – A smooth, mild cheese that pairs well with the other ingredients.
Gouda – Brings a smoky, slightly sweet depth to the dish.
Mozzarella – Gives the dish a stretchy, gooey cheese pull effect.

Best Ways to Serve This Dish

While the hot dish is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with the right sides can make it even better. Here are some great serving suggestions:

Simple Side Salad – A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the dish.
Garlic Bread – Perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.
Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli, asparagus, or roasted Brussels sprouts add extra nutrients.
Pickles or Coleslaw – A tangy side helps cut through the creamy texture.
Fresh Fruit – Sliced apples, grapes, or berries provide a refreshing contrast.

Tips for Making the Best Turkey Tater Tot Hot Dish

To get the best results, follow these simple tips:

Use High-Quality Turkey – Lean ground turkey is ideal, but using a mix of dark and white meat provides extra flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Turkey – Cooking it just until browned ensures the meat stays moist.
Season Generously – Turkey is mild, so make sure to add enough salt, pepper, and other seasonings.
Bake Until Golden Brown – The tater tots should be crispy and golden for the best texture.
Let It Rest – Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving helps the flavors meld together.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

This dish is perfect for leftovers and meal prepping. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:

Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze – Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheat in Oven – Warm at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Microwave Option – Heat in short bursts, but note that the tater tots may lose some crispiness.

Conclusion

Turkey Tater Tot Hot Dish is the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and flavor. It’s a dish that brings back nostalgia while also being easy to customize to suit modern tastes. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a gathering with friends and family, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.

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