Tim Walz Hot Dish Recipe: A Simple Minnesota Classic

Growing up in the Midwest, you learn pretty quickly that “hot dish” isn’t just a meal, it’s a tradition. And few recipes capture that spirit better than the famous Tim Walz Hot Dish Recipe. The first time I tasted this hearty, crowd-pleasing meal at a neighborhood potluck, I was hooked. It wasn’t just the creamy base or the crispy tater tot topping, it was how every bite seemed to feel like home.

The Tim Walz Hot Dish Recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something warm and filling without fuss. It’s also a hit at family gatherings or game day parties, thanks to its generous servings and undeniable nostalgia. Whether you’re a Minnesota native or just someone in need of a cozy dinner idea, this is the hot dish recipe to keep in your back pocket.

Why This Tim Walz Hot Dish Recipe Hits All the Right Notes

What makes this dish stand out? For starters, the Tim Walz Hot Dish Recipe is as classic as it gets, layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and sweet corn, all tucked under a golden blanket of crisp tater tots. It’s simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable.

What sets this version apart is balance. The beef is well-seasoned and browned just right to bring out those savory notes. The corn adds a pop of sweetness, while the creamy soup binds everything together in the most comforting way. And of course, the crowning glory: those tater tots that turn golden and crispy in the oven.

Customization is a big part of why this recipe works so well. You can swap the protein for ground turkey or plant-based meat, use low-sodium soup if you’re watching your salt intake, or add your own veggies like peas, bell peppers, or green beans. Even the topping can be modified—cheese lovers can sprinkle shredded cheddar on top before baking for a melty, bubbly finish.

Whether you’re feeding a group or just craving leftovers that get even better the next day, the Tim Walz Hot Dish Recipe never disappoints. It’s the kind of dish that invites you in with a warm, comforting embrace and keeps you coming back for seconds.

Recipe Card

Tim Walz Hot Dish Recipe

Recipe by Soukayna

0.0 from 0 votes

Cuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

8

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

45

minutes

Calories

350

kcal

Embrace the cozy flavors of Minnesota with this Tim Walz hot dish recipe! A creamy, cheesy, and hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners.

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Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

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

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add onions and cook until softened. Season with salt and pepper.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, cream of mushroom soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, frozen vegetables, and half of the shredded cheese.
• Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread evenly and layer frozen tater tots on top.
• Bake for 35 minutes, then sprinkle the remaining cheese over the tots. Bake for another 10 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
• Let it cool slightly. Garnish with parsley if desired, and serve hot.

Notes

• For extra flavor, sprinkle paprika or garlic powder over the tater tots before baking.
• Swap ground beef for turkey or plant-based meat for a healthier or vegetarian option.
• Use fresh vegetables instead of frozen if you prefer a crunchier texture.

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Pro Tips for Nailing the Tim Walz Hot Dish Recipe

1. Use Crispy Tater Tots: To achieve a golden crust, place the tater tots in a single, tight layer.
2. Don’t Skip the Cheese: Add shredded cheese in layers for extra creaminess and flavor.
3. Boost the Seasoning: Worcestershire sauce enhances the savory depth; adjust with garlic powder or smoked paprika for a twist.
4. Add Crunch: Consider adding fried onions or breadcrumbs on top for added texture.
5. Customize the Veggies: Swap frozen veggies for fresh or use what’s in season for a personal touch.

Tasty Variants of the Tim Walz Hot Dish Recipe

The Spicy Tex-Mex Version

Craving a little heat? Swap the regular ground beef for spicy chorizo or seasoned taco beef. Add black beans and a layer of salsa before the tater tots. Top it off with shredded pepper jack cheese and a sprinkle of sliced jalapeños for a zesty take that’s perfect for game day or casual gatherings.

Veggie Lover’s Hot Dish

For a vegetarian-friendly version, use plant-based ground beef or lentils as the base. Add a mix of sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini for extra heartiness. Replace the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade roux-based veggie sauce or a dairy-free option. It’s still rich, satisfying, and crowd-pleasing.

Chicken & Broccoli Hot Dish

Switch out the beef for shredded rotisserie chicken and add steamed broccoli florets for a classic combo. Use cream of chicken or cream of broccoli soup, and top with crispy onions along with the tater tots for an extra layer of flavor. It’s comfort food with a hint of nostalgia.

Minnesota-Wild Mushroom Twist

Pay homage to Minnesota’s woods by using wild mushrooms like morels or chanterelles in place of (or alongside) the meat. Their earthy, meaty texture brings a gourmet flair to this humble dish. Pair with cream of mushroom soup and a light sprinkle of thyme or rosemary.

FAQs

Wrapping It Up

I’ve made this Tim Walz Hot Dish Recipe more times than I can count, and it never disappoints. Whether I’m hosting a family gathering, bringing a dish to a potluck, or simply craving something hearty after a long day, this recipe always delivers. It’s nostalgic, affordable, and endlessly customizable, making it a staple in any cook’s repertoire.

Pair this comforting meal with a sweet treat like our Coconut Custard Pie Recipe for a delightful finish.