This Pizza Tot Casserole combines two classic comfort foods—pizza and tater tots—into one irresistible dish! Loaded with seasoned beef, tangy marinara sauce, gooey cheese, and crispy tater tots, this casserole is a family-friendly favorite that’s customizable and perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage for extra flavor)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or a mozzarella-cheddar mix)
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
Optional Toppings:
- 1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/2 bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 1/4 cup mushrooms, sliced
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2️⃣ Cook the Beef:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the ground beef and diced onion for 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned and the onion is soft.
- Drain any excess grease.
3️⃣ Season and Sauce:
- Stir in the marinara or pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
4️⃣ Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the beef.
- Arrange the tater tots in a single layer over the cheese. Top with the remaining 1 cup of cheese.
5️⃣ Bake:
- Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, until the tater tots are golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6️⃣ Optional Toppings:
- If desired, add mini pepperoni, olives, bell peppers, or other toppings. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to heat the toppings.
7️⃣ Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with your favorite sides or garnishes!
Nutrition (per serving, approx.):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 28g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 850mg
Tips & Variations
- Add Veggies: Enhance the nutrition by adding spinach, zucchini, or sautéed mushrooms.
- Cheese Options: Swap mozzarella for provolone, cheddar, or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
- Meat Substitutes: Replace beef with turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative for dietary preferences.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Bake fresh when ready.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
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