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Pizza Tot Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 97 reviews

This Pizza Tot Casserole combines the comforting flavors of a classic pizza with crispy tater tots in an easy-to-make layered dish. Ground beef simmered in marinara sauce with Italian seasonings is layered with mozzarella cheese and a crispy topping of golden tater tots, then baked to bubbly perfection. Optional pizza toppings like pepperoni and vegetables can be added for extra flavor. Perfect for a hearty family dinner or casual gathering, this casserole offers a delicious twist on traditional pizza using ingredients you likely have on hand.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots

Optional Toppings

  • Pepperoni
  • Olives
  • Bell pepper
  • Green onions
  • Mushrooms

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
  2. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Break the meat apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease using a slotted spoon.
  3. Season and Sauce: Return the beef and onions to the skillet (if removed). Add marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for a couple of minutes to allow flavors to meld and sauce to thicken slightly.
  4. Assemble the Casserole: Spread the beef and sauce mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella evenly over the beef layer to help hold the tater tots in place.
  5. Add Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese and beef mixture, covering as much surface as possible. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly 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. Watch carefully towards the end to avoid burning.
  7. Add Toppings (Optional): If desired, scatter optional toppings like mini pepperoni, olives, bell peppers, green onions, or mushrooms over the casserole. Return to oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes until toppings are heated through.
  8. Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious pizza-inspired casserole with a crispy tater tot crust.

Notes

  • You can customize the casserole with your favorite pizza toppings to suit your taste.
  • Draining excess grease from the ground beef is essential to prevent a greasy casserole.
  • If you want extra crispy tater tots, you can partially bake them before adding, but this is optional.
  • Use a 9×13 inch baking dish for even cooking and layering.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.

Keywords: pizza casserole, tater tot casserole, ground beef casserole, easy dinner, baked casserole, comfort food

Find it online: https://zarameals.com/pizza-tot-casserole-recipe/