Crispy Tot Chili Casserole (Printable Version)

Golden tots top a hearty chili blend—perfect for satisfying, warming dinners on cool nights.

# Everything You’ll Need:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
02 - 1 medium yellow onion, diced
03 - 2 teaspoons minced garlic
04 - 2 pounds lean ground beef (93% lean)
05 - 1/3 cup tomato paste
06 - 2 tablespoons chili powder
07 - 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
08 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
09 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
10 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
11 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
12 - 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, rinsed and drained
13 - 1 can (15 oz) dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
14 - 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
15 - 1 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
16 - 1 bag (28 oz) frozen super crispy tots

→ Optional Garnish

17 - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
18 - 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

# Steps to Cook:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Spray a 9x13-inch casserole dish with non-stick baking spray and set aside.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté diced onions for 3-4 minutes, then add garlic and cook 1-2 more minutes.
03 - Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 8-10 minutes until browned. Drain any excess fat.
04 - Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano. Cook for 2-3 minutes to blend flavors.
05 - Stir in pinto beans, kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring mixture to a boil, then remove from heat.
06 - Transfer the beef mixture to the prepared baking dish. Layer frozen tots evenly on top.
07 - Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until tots are golden and crisp.
08 - Sprinkle with cheddar cheese and cilantro. Return to oven for 5-10 minutes until cheese melts.
09 - Allow casserole to cool for 10 minutes before serving.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing to help it set and serve clean portions.

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