Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Casserole

Craving a dinner that combines the nostalgic flavors of sloppy joes with the crispy goodness of tater tots? This Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Casserole is about to become your new family favorite.

Imagine a bubbling dish of savory ground beef, sweet and tangy sauce, and crispy golden tater tots, all topped with melted cheese – a perfect comfort food that's sure to bring smiles to the dinner table.

Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Casserole: A Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Dish

This casserole recipe transforms the classic sloppy joe into a hearty, one-dish meal that's both convenient and incredibly delicious. It combines the beloved flavors of a traditional sloppy joe with the irresistible crunch of tater tots.

Get ready to discover a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Serving Suggestions:

Elevate your Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Casserole with these delightful accompaniments:

• Fresh green salad
• Crispy baked potato wedges
• Coleslaw
• Pickles
• Garlic bread

Pro Tips for the Perfect Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Casserole:

Meat Management: Drain excess fat after browning the ground beef to prevent a greasy casserole.

Seasoning Secrets: Adjust the brown sugar and mustard to balance sweet and tangy flavors.

Tater Tot Technique: Arrange frozen tater tots in a single, even layer for maximum crispiness.

Cheese Distribution: Sprinkle cheese evenly for the perfect melted topping.

Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate before baking.

Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe Details:

• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Cooking time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6-8
• Equipment: Large skillet, 9x13-inch baking dish, mixing bowls

Ingredients:

For the Casserole Base:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 (28–32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
• Cooking spray

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Carefully spray a 9x13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray, ensuring complete coverage.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, onion, and green bell pepper. Break up the beef as it cooks, ensuring even browning and soft vegetables.
3. Drain any excess grease from the beef mixture. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
4. Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Remove the skillet from heat and mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
6. Spread the sloppy joe mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
7. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single, uniform layer over the meat mixture.
8. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the tater tots turn crispy and golden brown.
9. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the hot tater tots.
10. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly.

Ready to Enjoy!

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes cutting easier.

Storage Solutions:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F for best results
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating

Whether you're feeding a hungry family or hosting a casual dinner, this Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Casserole promises to be a crowd-pleasing sensation that combines comfort, flavor, and pure deliciousness.

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