Church Supper Hot Dish (Air Fryer Version)
Introduction:
A Church Supper Hot Dish is a classic Midwestern-style casserole, often shared at potlucks and community dinners. It’s warm, filling, budget-friendly, and packed with familiar, nostalgic flavors—typically including ground beef, veggies, a creamy soup base, and a crispy topping like tater tots or shredded cheese. In this air fryer version, we downsize it for quick prep, small batches, and that perfectly golden top layer.
This dish is great for busy nights or whenever you’re craving something cozy and satisfying.
Ingredients (Serves 3–4):
Base Layer:
1/2 lb ground beef or ground turkey
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt & black pepper to taste
Creamy Filling:
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
1/3 cup frozen peas and carrots (or mixed veggies)
1/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons milk
Optional: a pinch of thyme or parsley for flavor
Topping:
1 to 1½ cups frozen tater tots
Additional 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
Air Fryer Timing & Temp:
Temp: 375°F (190°C)
Cook Time: 15–18 minutes total
(precook meat: ~5 minutes, then bake hot dish ~10–13 minutes)
Instructions:
Precook the Ground Beef:
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F.
In an air fryer-safe baking pan or dish (or small foil pan), add the ground beef and onion.
Air fry for 5–6 minutes, stirring once halfway through.
Drain excess grease if needed.
Mix the Casserole:
To the cooked beef, stir in:
Cream of mushroom soup
Milk
Veggies
Shredded cheese
Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs if using
Add Topping:
Spread the creamy beef mixture evenly.
Top with a layer of frozen tater tots.
Lightly press them into the filling.
Sprinkle with extra cheddar cheese (optional).
Air Fry the Hot Dish:
Air fry at 375°F for 10–13 minutes, until:
The tater tots are golden and crispy
The filling is bubbling around the edges
Rest & Serve:
Let sit for 3–5 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Serve warm with a side salad, dinner roll, or green beans.
Tips & Variations:
Add a kick: Mix a little hot sauce or paprika into the filling.
No soup on hand? Use a mix of sour cream and a splash of broth instead.
Mini version: Use ramekins or small tins for individual portions.