Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole: A Southern Classic
Get step-by-step recipe instructions and a flavor packed ingredient list below for tater tot meatloaf casserole!
Looking for a dish that combines the savory flavors of meatloaf with the crispy, cheesy goodness of tater tots?
Look no further than Cheesy Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole!
This family-friendly recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or anytime you’re craving a hearty, satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
- Classic Comfort Food: Combines the nostalgia of meatloaf with the crispy deliciousness of tater tots and gooey cheese.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it beginner-friendly.
- Customizable: Easily adapt it with your favorite proteins, cheeses, and add-ins.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for feeding a hungry family or impressing guests at a potluck.
Key Ingredients
- Ground Beef: Provides the hearty, savory base for the casserole. Use lean ground beef for best results.
- Ritz Crackers: Adds a buttery texture and flavor to the meat mixture.
- Lipton Onion Soup Mix: Brings bold seasoning to the meatloaf.
- Barbecue Sauce: Sweet Baby Ray’s Hickory & Brown Sugar sauce adds a tangy, smoky sweetness.
- Tater Tots: Frozen tater tots create a crispy, golden topping.
- Cheese Blend: A mix of mozzarella and cheddar cheese melts perfectly for a creamy, gooey layer.
- Bacon Bits: Adds a smoky crunch to every bite.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 30 crushed Ritz crackers
- 2 oz Lipton onion soup mix
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup of the barbecue and ketchup mixture
Mix thoroughly with clean hands until all ingredients are well combined.
3. Assemble the Casserole
Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Spread the remaining ketchup and barbecue sauce mixture evenly over the meatloaf layer.
4. Add the Tater Tots
Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake the Casserole
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for 40 minutes, or until the ground beef is cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F or 71°C) and the tater tots are golden brown.
6. Add Cheese and Bacon
Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend over the tater tots. Top with ¼ cup bacon bits. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Let Rest and Serve
Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired, and serve warm.
Tips for Success
- Mix Thoroughly: Ensure the meatloaf mixture is evenly combined for consistent flavor.
- Use Frozen Tater Tots: Add them straight from the freezer for the crispiest results.
- Don’t Skip Resting Time: Letting the casserole sit after baking helps it set and makes slicing easier.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the meatloaf layer is fully cooked.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but here are some great side dishes to pair it with:
- Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
- Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, or asparagus make excellent, healthy sides.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm rolls are perfect for soaking up the extra barbecue sauce.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Allow the casserole to cool completely, then freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave for individual servings.
Variations to Try
- Switch the Protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of ground pork and beef.
- Add Veggies: Mix diced bell peppers, onions, or shredded zucchini into the meatloaf mixture.
- Try Different Sauces: Swap barbecue sauce with marinara or a tangy mustard-based sauce.
- Spice It Up: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat mixture with a seasoned lentil or chickpea base.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I assemble this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the casserole up to the tater tot layer, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add cheese and bake when ready to serve.
What if I don’t have Ritz crackers?
Substitute with breadcrumbs, crushed pretzels, or even panko for a slightly different texture.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
Yes, sliced or cubed fresh potatoes can work, but adjust the baking time to ensure they’re fully cooked.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The internal temperature of the meatloaf should reach 160°F (71°C), and the tater tots should be golden and crispy.
Cheesy Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 cup Sweet Baby Ray’s Hickory & Brown Sugar barbecue sauce
- 2 lbs lean ground beef
- 30 Ritz crackers, crushed
- 2 oz Lipton onion soup mix
- 2 large eggs
- 24 oz frozen tater tots
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend
- ¼ cup real bacon bits
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Combine ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers, onion soup mix, eggs, and ½ cup barbecue-ketchup mixture. Mix thoroughly.
- Press meat mixture into the baking dish and spread the remaining sauce on top.
- Layer frozen tater tots evenly over the meat.
- Bake covered for 35 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 40 minutes.
- Top with cheese and bacon bits, then bake 10–15 more minutes until bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Conclusion
Cheesy Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining the best of two classic dishes in one irresistible bake.
Whether you’re serving it for dinner, a potluck, or meal prep, this casserole is sure to delight everyone at the table.
Try it today and enjoy a delicious twist on a family favorite!
