Description
Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food! A delicious fusion of classic meatloaf and crispy tater tots, topped with melted cheese. This easy, family-friendly dinner is perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf Base:
1 lb ground beef (or turkey/chicken for a lighter version)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup ketchup (or BBQ sauce for extra flavor)
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Topping:
1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup crispy fried onions (optional)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
Optional Add-Ons:
Diced jalapeños for a spicy kick
Chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies
A drizzle of ranch or BBQ sauce for added flavor
Instructions
Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
Mix until everything is just combined—don’t overwork the meat!
Assemble the Casserole
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Spread the meatloaf mixture evenly into the dish, pressing it down slightly.
Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.
Bake to Perfection
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots.
Add a pinch of garlic powder and paprika for extra flavor.
Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and the tater tots are golden brown.
Serve and Enjoy!
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Garnish with crispy fried onions, extra cheese, or a drizzle of BBQ sauce.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Choose the Right Meat – Use 80/20 ground beef for the best texture, or try turkey/chicken for a lighter version.
Don’t Overmix the Meat – Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough. Mix until just combined.
Season Well – A little smoked paprika or BBQ sauce adds a delicious smoky flavor.
Crispy Tots Trick – Bake uncovered so the tater tots get golden and crunchy. For extra crispiness, broil for the last 3-5 minutes.
Make It Spicy – Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for a kick!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes