Description
This Fish Sticks Casserole is a comforting and delicious layered dish combining crispy pre-baked fish sticks and tater tots with a flavorful custard made from eggs, milk, and spices. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and baked to perfection, it’s a hearty meal perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 24 whole Gorton’s Crunchy Fish Sticks (Pre-baked according to the package)
- 16 ounces Tater Tots (Pre-baked according to the package)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 tablespoon Frank’s Red Hot Sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 16 ounces shredded cheddar cheese (freshly grated works best)
Instructions
- Pre-bake Fish Sticks and Tater Tots: Pre-cook the tater tots and Gorton’s Fish Sticks according to the package instructions until they are fully cooked and crispy. This ensures the layers remain crisp in the casserole.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, Frank’s Red Hot Sauce, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and kosher salt until fully combined to create a flavorful custard base.
- Layer the Casserole: Lightly grease a large casserole dish. Pour the egg and milk mixture evenly into the dish.
- Add First Layer of Tots: Evenly spread half of the pre-cooked tater tots on top of the egg mixture in the casserole dish.
- Add First Layer of Fish Sticks: Place half of the pre-baked fish sticks evenly over the layer of tater tots.
- Sprinkle Cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the fish sticks layer.
- Repeat Layers: Add the remaining tater tots, followed by the remaining fish sticks, and finish with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese layered on top.
- Bake the Casserole: Bake the assembled casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the eggs are fully cooked and the casserole feels firm when gently pressed.
- Serve: Remove from oven, let cool slightly, cut into six portions, and serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Using freshly grated cheddar cheese yields the best melting and flavor results.
- Ensure fish sticks and tater tots are fully pre-baked and crisp to avoid sogginess in the casserole.
- You can adjust the level of spiciness by modifying the amount of Frank’s Red Hot Sauce or omitting it for a milder version.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
