Description
This Tater Tot Pizza Casserole combines crispy golden tater tots with savory pizza toppings in one irresistible, cheesy bake. With seasoned meat, melty mozzarella, and a rich pizza sauce base, this family-friendly dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, game day gatherings, or anytime you’re craving a hearty, customizable comfort food classic.
Ingredients
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 1 lb ground Italian sausage or ground beef
- 1½ cups pizza sauce
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 20–30 slices pepperoni
- ½ cup diced bell peppers (optional)
- ¼ cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread frozen tater tots in an even layer in the dish. Bake for 15 minutes to crisp slightly.
- While tots are baking, brown sausage or ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain grease. Stir in pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
- Remove dish from oven. Spread meat mixture over the tater tots. Top with mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.
- Add pepperoni and any additional toppings (bell peppers, olives, etc.).
- Return to oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- (Optional) Broil for 1–2 minutes for extra golden cheese.
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Notes
- Swap sausage for ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Use any favorite pizza toppings like mushrooms, onions, or jalapeños.
- Try different cheeses like gouda, provolone, or a Mexican blend.
- For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and load up on veggies.
