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Use lean ground beef to reduce grease. For extra crispiness, place the casserole on the top rack during the last 5 minutes. Swap beef for Italian sausage, turkey, or plant-based crumbles. Add a sprinkle of parmesan or red pepper flakes for extra flavor. Serve with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Use lean ground beef to reduce grease. For extra crispiness, place the casserole on the top rack during the last 5 minutes. Swap beef for Italian sausage, turkey, or plant-based crumbles. Add a sprinkle of parmesan or red pepper flakes for extra flavor. Serve with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
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If you can’t decide between pizza night and crispy tater tots, this Pizza Tot Casserole lets you enjoy both in one irresistible dish. It’s layered with seasoned ground beef, rich marinara sauce, plenty of melty mozzarella, and finished with golden, crunchy tater tots. Easy to assemble and incredibly satisfying, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or whenever you’re craving classic comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 lb ground beef

  • 1 small onion, diced

  • 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots

Optional Toppings

  • Mini pepperoni

  • Sliced olives

  • Diced bell peppers

  • Sliced green onions

  • Mushrooms

Instructions

  • Preheat Oven
    Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

  • Cook the Beef
    In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until beef is browned and onion is soft, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess grease.

  • Season and Sauce
    Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.

  • Assemble the Casserole
    Spread beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella over the top.

  • Add Tater Tots
    Arrange tater tots in a single layer over the cheese. Sprinkle remaining 1 cup of mozzarella on top.

  • Bake
    Bake for 25–30 minutes, until tater tots are golden and cheese is melted and bubbly.

  • Add Optional Toppings
    Add desired toppings and return to oven for 5 more minutes.

  • Serve
    Let cool slightly, then scoop and serve warm.

Notes

  • Use lean ground beef to reduce grease.

  • For extra crispiness, place the casserole on the top rack during the last 5 minutes.

  • Swap beef for Italian sausage, turkey, or plant-based crumbles.

  • Add a sprinkle of parmesan or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

  • Serve with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Find it online: https://tastyquickly.com/pizza-tot-casserole-a-beginners-guide-to-comfort-food-heaven-2/