🥔 Cheesy Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole Recipe 🍖

Posted by BMA24

The classic flavors of meatloaf combined with the crispy crispness of tater tots and the creamy richness of cheese create a hearty and delectable dish called Cheesy Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole. This casserole is ideal for gatherings with loved ones, potlucks, or any other occasion when you’re looking for a hearty, satisfying dish. 🥔🍖

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 bag (32 ounces) frozen tater tots
  • 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup ketchup (optional, for topping)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven:
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  1. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
  • In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
  1. Form the Base Layer:
  • Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish to form a solid base layer.
  1. Add the Cheese:
  • Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the meatloaf layer.
  1. Arrange the Tater Tots:
  • Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.
  1. Mix the Soup and Sour Cream:
  • In a small bowl, mix together the condensed cream of mushroom soup and sour cream until well combined. Spread this mixture evenly over the tater tots.
  1. Add Optional Ketchup Topping:
  • If using, drizzle the ketchup evenly over the top of the casserole.
  1. Bake:
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is heated through.
  1. Serve:
  • Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Tips for the Best Casserole

  • Meatloaf Mixture: Feel free to customize the meatloaf mixture by adding your favorite seasonings or vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms.
  • Cheese: For extra cheesy goodness, you can add more cheese or use a blend of different cheeses like pepper jack or Colby.
  • Crispy Tater Tots: For extra crispy tater tots, you can broil the casserole for the last few minutes of baking, but keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.

Everyone at the table will love this cozy and delectable Cheesy Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole. This casserole’s savory meatloaf base, creamy cheese layer, and crispy tater tots on top make it the ideal one-dish meal for hectic weeknights or get-togethers with the family. Savor each bite’s delicious crunch and rich, savory tastes! 🥔🍖