Pizza Tot Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining the best of pizza and tater tots in one delicious dish. This recipe is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or game-day gatherings. With a crispy layer of golden tater tots on top of a cheesy, saucy, and meaty filling, this casserole will become a family favorite in no time.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground Italian sausage (or ground beef)
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14 oz) can pizza sauce
  • 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 (28 oz) bag frozen tater tots
  • 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until browned. Drain excess grease.
  3. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
  4. Stir in the pizza sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
  6. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the mixture.
  7. Arrange the frozen tater tots in an even layer on top.
  8. Bake for 30 minutes, until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
  9. Remove from oven, sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese, pepperoni slices, and Parmesan cheese.
  10. Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  11. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

  • Swap the sausage for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter version.
  • Add your favorite pizza toppings like mushrooms, olives, or jalapeños for extra flavor.
  • For a spicier kick, use spicy Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes.
  • Use cheddar cheese instead of mozzarella for a different cheesy twist.
  • Make it extra crispy by broiling for the last 2 minutes of baking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Pizza Tot Casserole is a fun and creative way to enjoy classic pizza flavors with a unique twist. It’s family-friendly, easy to prepare, and endlessly customizable. The crispy tater tots paired with gooey cheese and flavorful pizza toppings make every bite irresistible. Whether serving for a casual dinner or a potluck, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here