Cheesy Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole

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Description

Cheesy Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that combines the best of a classic meatloaf with the irresistible crunch of tater tots and the gooey goodness of melted cheese. This all-in-one casserole is perfect for family dinners and is sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

  • 1 ½ lbs ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano (optional)

For the Casserole:

  • 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
  • ½ cup ketchup (optional for topping)

Optional Ingredients:

  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
  • Extra shredded cheese for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven:
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  1. Prepare the Meatloaf:
  • In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano. Mix until just combined.
  • Press the meat mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  1. Layer the Casserole:
  • Spread the condensed cream of mushroom soup evenly over the meatloaf layer.
  • Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the soup layer.
  • Arrange the tater tots in a single layer over the cheese.
  1. Bake:
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and the tater tots are golden and crispy.
  • If using, spread ketchup over the top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a classic meatloaf topping.
  1. Serve:
  • Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
  • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Success

  • For extra flavor, sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the meat mixture.
  • Make sure the tater tots are spread out in a single layer to ensure they become crispy.

Recommendations

  • Serve with a side of green beans or a simple garden salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
  • This casserole also pairs well with a tangy coleslaw.

Nutrition (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fat: 25g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 5g

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