When winter winds howl across Minnesota, locals know exactly where to find warmth – in a bubbling hot dish! This beloved casserole tradition is more than just food; it’s a Minnesota cultural icon that brings families together around tables statewide.
From creamy tater tot casseroles to hearty ground beef bakes, these five restaurants serve up the ultimate Minnesota comfort food experience.
1. Mason Jar Kitchen & Bar – Eagan
Mason Jar is one of the few modern restaurants that lists Tater Tot Hotdish on its menu. Their version layers seasoned ground beef, corn, cream of mushroom, and cheddar over tater tots. It appears under “Modern Minnesota Favorites” in their dinner menu.
They also serve a “Tater Tot Breakfast Hotdish” on their weekend brunch menu.This confirms that hot dish is not just a concept there; it’s an actual ongoing menu item.
Their restaurant combines comfort food with a stylish, rustic setting. Mason Jar is a reliable pick for folks wanting a sit-down hot dish experience in the Twin Cities area.
2. Bernie’s (East Grand Forks)
Bernie’s, co-founded by Molly Yeh, offers tater tot hotdish served in a small skillet. Their menu rotates but regularly includes versions of hot dish with totals and classic layers.
Bernie’s embraces regional Midwestern traditions, including casserole classics. It’s located in the northern part of Minnesota, serving both locals and visitors. For those willing to travel, it’s a destination for hot dish lovers.
3. Smokin Hottdish – Eden Prairie / Catering
Smokin Hottdish is primarily a catering business but specializes in hot dish style cooking. They promote combining Northern and Southern culinary traditions, with a focus on classic casseroles.
As a business centered on hotdish, they exemplify the style even if not always dine-in. They provide full catering services and host private events. While not a typical restaurant with open daily seating, they are a resource for hot dish in Minnesota.
4. Stray Dog – Minneapolis
Stray Dog in Northeast Minneapolis has a knack for blending neighborhood pub vibes with hearty comfort food, and its Tater Tot Hot Dish is proof. Served with layers of seasoned beef, vegetables, creamy sauce, and a golden tot topping, it feels like the ultimate Minnesota classic reimagined for a modern menu.
The dish sits comfortably alongside burgers and craft beer, making it a favorite pairing for locals on game day. Regulars love that it’s familiar yet still pub-friendly, served in generous portions that satisfy even the biggest appetites.
5. Two Sisters Kitchen + Bar – Oronoco
At Two Sisters Kitchen + Bar in Oronoco, the menu celebrates small-town comfort, and the MN Hotdish stands out as a signature favorite. This dish layers seasoned beef, vegetables, creamy mushroom sauce, and a tot crust, delivering exactly the kind of stick-to-your-ribs meal Minnesotans crave.
Served in a welcoming, family-friendly space, it has quickly become a local staple that regulars return for again and again. Guests often pair it with local beer or a side of homemade bread for the full Midwestern experience. The restaurant embraces tradition while keeping things approachable, offering hotdish as a true nod to Minnesota heritage.
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