Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the meat-and-sauce mixture evenly on the bottom.
- Sprinkle ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the meat layer.
- Arrange tater tots in a single layer on top, covering the entire dish.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven.
- Bake uncovered for 30–40 minutes, until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy on top.
- (Optional) For extra cheese, sprinkle more cheddar over the tater tots in the last 5 minutes of baking.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes—this helps it set for easier serving.
- Scoop into plates and enjoy warm with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or even garlic bread.
Tips for the Perfect Tater Tot Casserole
- Crispier Tots: For extra crunch, broil the casserole for 2–3 minutes at the end. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the casserole a day before baking and store it covered in the fridge. Bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap ground meat with lentils, cooked mushrooms, or a plant-based meat substitute.
Why Everyone Loves This Dish
The magic of Tater Tot Casserole lies in its layers of flavor: creamy, cheesy, savory meat at the bottom, topped with crispy, golden tater tots. It’s both nostalgic and practical, feeding a hungry family in under an hour with minimal prep. Once you make it, it’s sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation.
If you want, I can also make a version with extra cheese, vegetables, and a crunchy topping, giving it a slightly gourmet twist while keeping it family-friendly.
Do you want me to do that?
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