If you’re in search of the ultimate comfort food dish that marries the flavors of hearty meatloaf with the irresistible cheesiness of tater tots, then look no further. This Cheesy Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, potluck, or simply craving some nostalgic flavors, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. It’s also a fantastic option for feeding a crowd, as it can easily be doubled or tripled to accommodate larger gatherings. Even picky eaters will find it hard to resist the cheesy goodness of this casserole.
Why It’s Great
What sets this Cheesy Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole apart is its simplicity and versatility. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a delicious one-pan meal that’s both comforting and filling. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover ground meat you have on hand, whether it’s beef, turkey, or even chicken.
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Cheesy Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole
Ingredients
To make this Cheesy Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole, you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 10.5-ounce can condensed tomato soup
- 1 32-ounce bag frozen tater tots
Recipe Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook until softened.
- Season the beef mixture with salt and black pepper, then transfer it to the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef mixture.
- Pour the condensed tomato soup over the cheese layer, spreading it out with a spatula.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the tomato soup layer.
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make this Cheesy Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:
- Large skillet
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Cooking spray
- Spatula
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (although it’s unlikely!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat individual portions in the microwave until heated through.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to customize the flavor of your casserole. Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack would all work well in this recipe.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since the dish will be cold from the refrigerator.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole? Certainly! You can sneak in some extra veggies by adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach to the beef mixture before baking. Just be sure to sauté them until softened before adding them to the casserole.
Food and Drink Pairings
This Cheesy Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole pairs perfectly with a simple green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette for a balanced meal. For drinks, try serving it with a refreshing lemonade or a crisp lager beer to complement the cheesy flavors.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Cheesy Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole is a comfort food classic that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Its simplicity, versatility, and downright deliciousness make it a winner every time. So why not whip up a batch tonight and treat yourself to a taste of nostalgia? Don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends and family and subscribe to our blog for more mouthwatering recipes like this one!
