Pizza Tot Casserole

Pizza Tot Casserole

ByLila

I’ve always been a sucker for comfort food, and Pizza Tot Casserole is one of those dishes that hits all the right spots. Growing up, my family would gather around the table for pizza nights, but when I stumbled across this casserole recipe, it was a game-changer. It’s like pizza and tater tots had a delicious baby! The crispy tots, gooey cheese, and classic pizza flavors make it a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike. I love how easy it is to whip up, especially on busy weeknights when I’m craving something hearty but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

What makes this recipe special is its versatility—you can customize it with your favorite pizza toppings or keep it simple for picky eaters. Whether I’m cooking for my family or bringing a dish to a potluck, this casserole never fails to impress. It’s budget-friendly, uses pantry staples, and delivers that cozy, nostalgic vibe we all crave. Ready to dive into this cheesy, tot-topped goodness? Let’s get cooking!

Pizza Tot Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage for extra flavor)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1 cup pepperoni slices (or your favorite pizza toppings)
  • 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil.
  2. Cook the beef. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Add diced onion and green bell pepper. Cook until the veggies soften, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat.
  3. Add sauce and seasonings. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to blend the flavors.
  4. Assemble the base. Spread the beef and sauce mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top, followed by a layer of pepperoni slices.
  5. Top with tots. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer over the entire casserole, covering the filling completely.
  6. Add more cheese. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the tater tots.
  7. Bake. Pop the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tots are golden and crispy and the cheese is bubbly.
  8. Garnish and serve. Let it cool for 5 minutes, then sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Slice and serve hot!
Easy Pizza Tot Casserole

Pro Cooking Tips

  • Crispier tots: For extra crunch, bake the tater tots on a baking sheet for 10 minutes before adding them to the casserole.
  • Cheese lovers: Mix some cheddar or provolone with the mozzarella for a richer flavor.
  • Avoid sogginess: Don’t thaw the tater tots before baking; frozen tots hold their shape better.
  • Time-saver: Prep the beef and sauce mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge for quick assembly.

Variations

  • Veggie-packed: Add mushrooms, olives, or spinach to the beef mixture for a nutrient boost.
  • Meatless: Swap ground beef for plant-based crumbles or extra veggies like zucchini.
  • Spicy twist: Use spicy sausage or add jalapeños for a fiery kick.
  • Breakfast vibe: Top with scrambled eggs and bacon for a morning casserole.

Storage Suggestions

  • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to keep the tots crispy.
  • Freezer: Assemble the casserole (without baking), cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
  • Reheating tip: Avoid the microwave if you want to maintain the tots’ crunch.

How to Serve

Serve Pizza Tot Casserole straight from the oven with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to balance the richness. It’s perfect for game nights, family dinners, or potlucks. For a fun twist, set out small bowls of extra marinara sauce or ranch for dipping. Kids love it with a side of carrot sticks or cucumber slices.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Based on 8 Servings)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Sodium: 900mg
    Note: Nutrition values are approximate and vary based on ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I use homemade tater tots?
Yes, but they may not crisp up as well as frozen ones. Ensure they’re fully cooked before adding to the casserole.

What other toppings work well?
Try sausage, bacon, ham, or even pineapple for a Hawaiian twist. Just don’t overload the casserole to avoid sogginess.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tater tots and double-check that your marinara sauce and seasonings are gluten-free.

How do I prevent a watery casserole?
Drain the beef thoroughly and avoid adding extra liquid to the sauce. Frozen tots also help absorb moisture.

Can I use a different pan size?
A slightly smaller or larger pan works, but adjust the cooking time. A smaller pan may need a few extra minutes.

Conclusion

Pizza Tot Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that brings together the best of pizza and tater tots in one irresistible dish. It’s quick, customizable, and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a casual get-together, this casserole delivers big on flavor without breaking the bank. So, grab those tater tots, crank up the oven, and treat yourself to a slice of cheesy, crispy heaven. Trust me, you’ll be coming back for seconds!

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