Sloppy Joe Tater Tot Casserole
Sloppy Joes and Tater Tots are the stuff childhood food memories are made of. And when they’re united in one cheesy, sinfully delicious casserole? Well, that’s the stuff dreams are made of. This quick bake is comforting and convenient, and it’s just the kind of thing we like to make when we want a meal that we know will taste amazing but is also just kinda fun. Whether you’re a kid of 5 or 99, this Sloppy Joe Tater Tot Casserole will bring a smile to your face. And your stomach.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a fantastic combination of two classic comfort foods, making it an instant hit at the dinner table. It’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and has a satisfying texture that appeals to everyone. Plus, it requires minimal effort and delivers maximum taste, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a fun weekend meal.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese grater
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 32 oz frozen tater tots
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup dill pickles, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium-high heat until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
- Return the skillet to the heat and stir in the tomato sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and salt. Cook until the mixture is simmering, stirring frequently, for about 2-3 minutes.
- Layer half of the frozen tater tots in the prepared baking dish. Spoon the beef mixture over the tots.
- Top the beef mixture with 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese. Add the remaining tater tots on top, followed by the rest of the cheese.
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven until it is bubbly and golden brown, approximately 45-55 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped dill pickles. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
For the best results, make sure to drain the grease from the beef to avoid a greasy casserole. Also, you can use pre-chopped onions to save time. Feel free to add more cheese if you like it extra cheesy!
Additional Tips and Variations
You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture for extra nutrition. For a spicy kick, consider mixing in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. If you prefer turkey over beef, ground turkey makes a great substitute.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Calories: 520 | Protein: 28g | Carbohydrates: 42g | Fat: 28g | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 10g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely! Simply store leftover casserole in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.
What can I serve with this casserole? A fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables make great sides to balance the meal.
Conclusion
This Sloppy Joe Tater Tot Casserole is a delightful trip down memory lane, combining the beloved flavors of Sloppy Joes and crispy tater tots in a single dish. It’s perfect for bringing smiles to the faces of family and friends. Give it a try and experience the joy it brings to your table. We’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so don’t forget to share your experiences in the comments below!
