Description
Hearty Cheesy Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole brings comfort food to new heights with its irresistible blend of ground beef, crispy tots, and melted cheese. Comfort seekers will devour this nostalgic dish that promises warmth and satisfaction in every delicious bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits
Vegetables and Seasonings:
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup mixed vegetables
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup or barbecue sauce
Binding and Topping:
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 bag frozen tater tots (about 20–30 tots)
Instructions
- Craft the savory meatloaf foundation by thoroughly blending ground beef with diced onions, crushed garlic, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, breadcrumbs, and egg until ingredients are uniformly distributed.
- Transfer the seasoned meat mixture into a prepared baking dish, pressing firmly to create an even layer across the bottom of the pan.
- Generously distribute shredded cheese over the meat mixture, ensuring complete coverage and maximum flavor distribution.
- Strategically arrange frozen tater tots in a uniform pattern, completely blanketing the cheese and meat layer to create a crispy protective topping.
- Position the assembled casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C), allowing it to bake for approximately 35-40 minutes.
- Verify doneness by confirming the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F, with tater tots achieving a golden-brown crispness and cheese melting into a luxurious, bubbling surface.
- Remove from oven and permit the casserole to rest for 5-7 minutes, allowing flavors to settle and making slicing more manageable.
- Slice into hearty portions and serve alongside steamed green vegetables or a crisp garden salad for a well-rounded meal.
Notes
- Customize the meat mixture by using ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a leaner or vegetarian version.
- Add extra flavor with diced bell peppers or mushrooms mixed into the meat for more depth and nutrition.
- Ensure even cooking by spreading the meatloaf mixture in a uniform layer and arranging tater tots in a single, tight layer.
- Make ahead and refrigerate the assembled casserole for up to 24 hours before baking, which can enhance the flavors and make meal prep easier.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 460 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 710 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 29 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg