Hearty Beef and Potato Casserole

This recipe came from a church cookbook, so I have no way of knowing whether it came from another source, or if this was someone's own creation. Regardless, it has been a family favorite ever since. Make sure you thaw the broccoli first, so it gets cooked enough. Otherwise, you will end up with cold, half-frozen broccoli in your casserole. (Ask me how I know . . . )

• Ready In: 38 mins
• Serves: 8-10
• Yields: 1 casserole

Ingredients

• 4  cups  frozen tater tots (I buy "Crispy Crowns", which are like flat, disc-shaped tater tots.)
• 1  lb ground beef
• 10  ounces frozen broccoli, thawed
• 1 (2 7/8ounce) can  French-fried onions
• 1  medium tomatoes, chopped
• 1 (10 1/2ounce) can  cream of celery soup
• 1⁄3 cup milk
• 1  cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1⁄4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1⁄8 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Place potatoes on bottom and sides of a 9" x 13" casserole dish. Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes.
2. Brown ground beef and drain. Place beef, broccoli, 1/2 can onions and tomatoes in potato shell. Combine soup, milk, 1/2 cup cheese and seasonings and pour over beef mixture. Bake, covered, for 20 minutes, at 400 degrees Fahrenhiet.
3. Top with remaining cheese and onions. Bake uncovered 2-3 minutes longer, until cheese is melted.