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Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Casserole

Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Casserole

Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that combines the savory flavor of classic sloppy joes with a crispy tater tot topping. This easy-to-make casserole delivers bold flavors and a delightful mix of textures, perfect for family dinners and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Aromatics

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Sauces and Seasonings

  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Toppings

  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 (32 oz) package frozen tater tots

Instructions

  1. Brown the Meat: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef with diced onions and garlic until the meat is fully browned and fragrant, breaking it up evenly with a spoon.
  2. Prepare the Sauce: Add tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to the cooked meat. Stir everything well and let it simmer to blend the flavors thoroughly.
  3. Assemble the Casserole: Spread the sloppy joe meat mixture evenly in a baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, then cover the entire dish with a layer of frozen tater tots.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots turn golden and crispy and the cheese bubbles and browns slightly.
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes so the layers settle, making it easier to cut and serve.

Notes

  • Brown meat thoroughly to reduce excess grease and enhance flavor.
  • Use frozen tater tots for a better, crispier topping.
  • Simmer the meat sauce to develop a deep, savory flavor.
  • Opt for sharp cheddar cheese for ideal meltability and taste.
  • Letting the casserole rest before serving helps maintain structure and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: sloppy joe casserole, tater tot casserole, comfort food, family dinner, easy casserole