Pizza Tot Casserole

A Crispy, Cheesy Comfort Dish

If you’re looking for an easy, family-friendly meal that combines all the best flavors of pizza with the crispy goodness of tater tots, this Pizza Tot Casserole is for you! This dish is a fantastic option for busy weeknights, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving a cheesy, hearty meal. It’s simple to make, requires minimal prep time, and is endlessly customizable to suit your taste preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy: Minimal prep work and simple ingredients make this a great choice for busy nights.
  • Crowd-Pleasing: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy, crispy, pizza-inspired flavors.
  • Customizable: Swap out ingredients and toppings to create a version tailored to your tastes.
  • Comfort Food Classic: A perfect blend of crispy tater tots, seasoned beef, melty cheese, and rich pizza sauce.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage for more flavor)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar)
  • 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots

Optional Toppings:

  • 1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices
  • 1/2 cup sliced black olives
  • 1/2 bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup sliced green onions
  • 1/4 cup mushrooms, sliced

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

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

2. Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess grease to avoid an overly greasy casserole.

3. Season and Sauce

Stir in the marinara or pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for a couple of minutes to enhance the flavors.

4. Assemble the Casserole

Spread the beef and sauce mixture evenly in the greased baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the beef mixture.

5. Add the Tater Tots

Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese and beef mixture. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese on top.

6. Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the tater tots are golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Add Toppings (Optional)

If desired, add mini pepperoni, olives, bell peppers, or other toppings. Bake for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.

8. Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Large skillet
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Oven
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Spatula

Recipe Tips & Variations

  • Meat Swap: Use ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
  • Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and load up on extra veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini.
  • Cheese Variations: Try a mix of mozzarella, cheddar, or provolone for added depth.
  • Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
  • Lower Carb Version: Use cauliflower tots instead of traditional tater tots.

How to Store Leftovers

Refrigeration:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Freezing:

To freeze, wrap the casserole in plastic wrap and foil. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating:

  • Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
  • Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.

Pairing Suggestions

Side Dishes:

  • Garlic bread
  • A fresh green salad
  • Roasted vegetables

Beverages:

  • A glass of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
  • Sparkling water with lemon
  • A classic cola for a nostalgic pizza night feel

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Bake when ready.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?

Yes, but they won’t be as crispy. Slice and parboil fresh potatoes before layering.

What’s the best cheese for this casserole?

Mozzarella melts beautifully, but a mix of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan gives a deeper flavor.

Can I add more toppings?

Absolutely! Try bacon, jalapeños, or even pineapple if you love a sweet-savory combo.

Final Thoughts

This Pizza Tot Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining pizza flavors with crispy tater tots for a dish the whole family will love. It’s easy to customize, make ahead, and reheat for leftovers. If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it with friends and family and subscribe to the blog for more delicious, easy-to-make meals!

Happy cooking!

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