Pizza Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Pizza Tater Tot Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines classic pizza flavors with crispy tater tots. It’s an easy, family-friendly meal perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying and cheesy.

Ingredients

• 1-1/2 pounds ground beef
• 1 medium green pepper, chopped (optional)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1/2 pound sliced fresh mushrooms
• 1 can (15 ounces) pizza sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 3 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
• 1 package (32 ounces) frozen Tater Tots
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the chopped green pepper, onion, and sliced mushrooms until the meat is no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease and liquid from the vegetables.
3. Step 3: Stir the pizza sauce and dried basil into the cooked beef mixture. Transfer this mixture to a greased 3-quart or 13×9-inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
4. Step 4: Spread the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the beef mixture, then arrange the frozen Tater Tots on top in a single layer.
5. Step 5: Bake the casserole uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the Tater Tots are lightly browned.
6. Step 6: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Return it to the oven and bake for about five more minutes, until the cheddar is melted and bubbly.

Tips & Variations

• To save on cleanup, cook the beef and vegetables in an oven-safe skillet and bake the casserole in the same pan.
• For extra flavor, add sliced black olives or pepperoni to the beef mixture before baking.
• If you prefer, swap the mozzarella with a blend of Italian cheeses or use all cheddar for a sharper taste.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or cover the dish with foil and heat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey makes a leaner option and works well in this casserole. Just cook it thoroughly before assembling.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it, then bake within 24 hours. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the casserole is cold from the fridge.

Pizza Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 56 reviews

A hearty and delicious Pizza Tater Tot Casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, vegetables, pizza sauce, and layers of melted mozzarella and cheddar cheeses topped with crispy tater tots. This comforting oven-baked dish combines the flavors of pizza with the crispy texture of tater tots for a family-friendly meal.

• Author: Elias
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Beef and Vegetables

• 1–1/2 pounds ground beef
• 1 medium green pepper, chopped (optional)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1/2 pound sliced fresh mushrooms

Sauce and Seasonings

• 1 can (15 ounces) pizza sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried basil

Cheese and Toppings

• 3 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
• 1 package (32 ounces) frozen Tater Tots
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Cook the beef and vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with chopped green pepper, onion, and sliced mushrooms. Stir and break up the beef into small crumbles until the meat is no longer pink. Drain and discard any excess grease and moisture from the cooked mixture.
2. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
3. Combine sauce and basil: Stir the pizza sauce and dried basil into the cooked beef and vegetable mixture until everything is well combined.
4. Assemble the casserole: Grease a 3-quart or 13×9-inch baking dish. Spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom, then top it with a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese. (Tip: You can cook and assemble the casserole in an oven-safe skillet to reduce cleanup.)
5. Bake the casserole: Place the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the tater tots are lightly browned and cooked through.
6. Add cheddar cheese and finish baking: Remove the casserole carefully from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheddar cheese is melted and bubbly.

Notes

• Optional vegetables such as green pepper can be omitted if preferred.
• Using an oven-safe skillet for cooking and baking minimizes dishes.
• Ensure tater tots are spread in a single layer for even browning.
• Feel free to substitute part-skim mozzarella with a full-fat variety for richer flavor.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.

Keywords: Pizza Tater Tot Casserole, tater tot casserole, baked casserole, ground beef casserole, family dinner, comfort food