Chili Tots

After being on vacation for a while and very busy before vacation I  haven't tried any new recipes lately, which my boyfriend reminded me of. ha ha.  Since we are finally back into the swing of normal life I will be cooking more again!  So, to get back into the swing of things i decided to try out this new recipe! 

Chili Tots

Prep 15 minutes                  Bake 35 minutes          Yield: 2 Casseroles, 6 servings each

1 lb. ground beef
2 cans (15oz each) chili without beans
1 can (8oz) tomato sauce
1 can (2 1/4oz) sliced ripe olives, drained
1 can (4oz) chopped green chilies
2 Cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 package (32oz) frozen Tater Tots

In a large skillet, cook beef over medium heat until no longer pink; drain.  Stir in chili, tomato sauce, olives, and chilies.  Transfer to two greased 8 inch square baking dishes.  Sprinkle with cheese and top with Tater Tots. Cover and freeze one casserole for up to 3 months. 

Cover and bake the other casserole at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes or until heated through.

To use frozen casserole: Remove from the freezer 30 minutes before baking (do not thaw).  Cover and bake at 350 degrees for 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 hours or until heated through.

This was a quick and easy recipe to make.  I did change a few things.  Instead of using beef, I used lean ground turkey!  You couldn't tell the difference and it is a healthier alternative.  I also did not put the green chilies in.  It was a very flavorful dish and the chili was not overpowering.  The olives were an added bonus of flavor that was quite surprising.  Make sure the Tater Tots are a crispy and the casserole is bubbling before you take it out.  If you want to make 1 big casserole just put it all in 1 dish instead of 2!  I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we did! 

  I served with green beans cooked with garlic.