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Pizza Tot Casserole is the featured image showcasing a delicious and easy-to-make family meal.

Irresistible Pizza Tot Casserole

This Pizza Tot Casserole combines the comforting goodness of a tater tot casserole with the universally loved flavors of pizza. Crispy tater tots, a rich and savory meat sauce, and gooey melted cheese create a satisfying and surprisingly simple meal that will become a family favorite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 32 ounces frozen tater tots
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 24 ounces pizza sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 4 ounces pepperoni slices
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, cooked bacon, ham, pineapple

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Oven
  • Mixing spoon
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground meat. Drain off any excess grease.
  3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  5. Pour in the pizza sauce and add the Italian seasoning. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  8. Pour the meat sauce evenly into the bottom of the dish.
  9. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the meat sauce.
  10. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese.
  11. Top with the remaining cheese and pepperoni slices.
  12. Add any other desired toppings.
  13. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  14. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Don't overcrowd the tots; make sure they are arranged in a single layer. Thaw your meat before browning. Pre-cook veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers before adding them to the casserole. Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Freeze for up to 2-3 months, thawing completely before baking, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time. For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground meat with plant-based crumbles or vegetables.