This cheesy tater tot meatloaf casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering. Imagine a dish that combines the juicy goodness of meatloaf with the crispy texture of tater tots, all smothered in melted cheese. It’s a one-pan wonder that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Looking for a way to elevate your weeknight meals? This casserole is not only hearty and satisfying, but it’s also incredibly simple to prepare. Just mix, layer, and bake – it’s that easy! Plus, the kids will love the fun of tater tots on top, making it a kid-approved favorite.
If you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe is for you. It’s comforting, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it ideal for those chilly evenings when you crave something warm and filling.
A Deliciously Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole
This casserole showcases a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
The savory meatloaf base pairs perfectly with the crispy tater tots.
Rich, melted cheese creates a creamy topping that enhances every bite.
The combination of hearty meat, crunchy potatoes, and gooey cheese makes this dish a comforting favorite.
It’s the ideal choice for those chilly evenings when warmth is a priority.
Simple Steps to Prepare
Preparation is straightforward and quick.
Start by mixing the ground beef with breadcrumbs, onions, milk, and spices until well combined.
This mixture forms the hearty base for your casserole.
Next, simply layer the tater tots and cheese on top before finishing with a drizzle of ketchup.
The assembly is easy, making it a perfect creation for busy weeknights.
Baking for Perfection
Bake the casserole in a preheated oven until the meatloaf is fully cooked and the tater tots are golden brown.
This usually takes around 45 to 50 minutes.
The aroma wafting through the kitchen will have everyone anticipating a delicious meal.
Allow it to cool slightly before slicing.
This will ensure that the layers hold together beautifully when served.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole can be served warm, making it a delightful centerpiece for any table.
Pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
The vibrant colors and hearty flavors are sure to impress your guests.
You can also garnish with fresh herbs for a touch of brightness and added flavor.
The visual appeal of the dish adds to the overall dining experience.
Nutrition Highlights
For those keeping an eye on nutrition, this casserole serves six and packs a satisfying punch.
Each serving contains approximately 460 calories, with 30g of protein to fuel your day.
With a balance of fats and carbohydrates, it offers a wholesome option for family meals.
Enjoying this dish can be part of a varied and balanced diet.
A Deliciously Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole
This tater tot meatloaf casserole offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The savory meatloaf base is complemented by crispy tater tots and rich melted cheese that creates a creamy topping. Each bite is a wonderful blend of hearty meat, crunchy potatoes, and gooey cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup onion finely chopped
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups frozen tater tots
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup ketchup for topping
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, milk, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape Meatloaf: Press the meat mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Layer Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots evenly over the meatloaf layer.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the tater tots.
- Add Ketchup: Drizzle ketchup over the cheese for added flavor.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the tater tots are golden brown.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 460kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
