Description
Cheesy Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting and hearty twist on the classic meatloaf, combining seasoned ground meat with melted cheese and crispy tater tots baked to golden perfection. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for a family dinner, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Mixture
- 1 lb ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (optional, such as bell peppers or carrots)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (optional)
Topping
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Prepare Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the ground meat with chopped onion, minced garlic, optional mixed vegetables, salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you prefer. Ensure all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Layer Ingredients: Spread the meatloaf mixture evenly in a casserole dish, forming a flat layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheese uniformly over the meat mixture. Then, arrange the frozen tater tots evenly on top of the cheese layer.
- Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. Bake until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the meatloaf mixture reaches a safe internal temperature (160°F or 71°C for beef).
- Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes. This resting period helps the casserole set and makes serving easier. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting meal.
Notes
- You can use ground beef, turkey, or chicken depending on your preference or dietary needs.
- Adding vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms enhances flavor and nutrition.
- For a crispier tater tot topping, you can broil for the last 3-5 minutes but watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- Make sure the meat is fully cooked to a safe temperature to avoid any foodborne illness.
