Cheesy Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole
If you’re in search of the ultimate comfort food dish that marries the flavors of hearty meatloaf with the irresistible cheesiness of tater tots, then look no further. This Cheesy Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, potluck, or simply craving some nostalgic flavors, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. It’s also a fantastic option for feeding a crowd, as it can easily be doubled or tripled to accommodate larger gatherings. Even picky eaters will find it hard to resist the cheesy goodness of this casserole.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
To make this Cheesy Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:
- Large skillet
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Cooking spray
- Spatula
Ingredients
To make this Cheesy Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole, you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 10.5-ounce can condensed tomato soup
- 1 32-ounce bag frozen tater tots
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook until softened.
- Season the beef mixture with salt and black pepper, then transfer it to the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef mixture.
- Pour the condensed tomato soup over the cheese layer, spreading it out with a spatula.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the tomato soup layer.
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
To ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips:
- If you prefer a crispier top, broil the casserole for the last few minutes of baking.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to make it easier to slice and serve.
Additional Tips or Variations
Feel free to customize this casserole to your liking:
- Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for varied flavors.
- Veggies: Add in some veggies like diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and bake it the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This comforting dish is packed with protein and cheesy goodness, offering a hearty meal for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to customize the flavor of your casserole. Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack would all work well in this recipe.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since the dish will be cold from the refrigerator.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole? Certainly! You can sneak in some extra veggies by adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach to the beef mixture before baking. Just be sure to sauté them until softened before adding them to the casserole.
