Pizza Tot Casserole is a delightful and family-friendly dish that combines the beloved flavors of pizza with the comforting appeal of tater tots. This casserole takes the traditional ingredients of a pizza—savory meat, tangy tomato sauce, melty cheese, and flavorful toppings—and layers them with crispy tater tots, creating a satisfying and easy-to-make meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, Pizza Tot Casserole is sure to become a crowd-pleasing favorite. Let’s explore the history and details of this comforting recipe.

The origins of casserole-style dishes can be traced back to early civilizations, where communities would cook various ingredients together in a single vessel. Casseroles gained popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century as an economical and convenient way to feed large families.

Pizza Tot Casserole is a modern twist on the traditional casserole concept, drawing inspiration from the popularity of pizza as a beloved comfort food. Combining the flavors of pizza with the convenience of a casserole, this dish provides a satisfying and fuss-free meal option.

The recipe typically consists of a base layer of tater tots, topped with a flavorful mixture of ground meat (such as beef or sausage), tomato sauce, herbs, and cheese. Additional toppings such as pepperoni, bell peppers, onions, or olives can be added to enhance the pizza-like experience.

Pizza Tot Casserole captures the essence of pizza, providing a comforting and crowd-pleasing meal option that is easily customizable to individual tastes. The combination of crispy tater tots, savory meat, tangy sauce, and gooey cheese creates a delightful texture and a burst of flavors.

This casserole has gained popularity in recent years due to its versatility and simplicity. It offers a convenient way to enjoy the flavors of pizza in a more substantial and shareable format, making it an ideal choice for family dinners, potlucks, or casual get-togethers.

PREP: 10 MIN.

BAKE: 35 MIN.

MAKES: 8 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 1 pound ground beef or sausage
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup sliced pepperoni
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
• 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 4 cups frozen tater tots

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked meat. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant.
4. Stir in the pizza sauce or marinara sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if desired), salt, and black pepper. Simmer the mixture for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Remove the skillet from heat and set aside.
6. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on the bottom of the greased baking dish.
7. Pour the meat and sauce mixture evenly over the tater tots, spreading it out to cover them.
8. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the meat mixture, followed by the sliced pepperoni, diced bell peppers (if using), and sliced black olives (if using).
9. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

NOTES:

• Serve your homemade Pizza Tot Casserole warm, savoring the comforting flavors of pizza combined with the crispy texture of tater tots. This versatile and satisfying dish is sure to please everyone at the table, making it a go-to option for casual gatherings, potlucks, or weeknight dinners when you’re in the mood for a tasty twist on classic comfort food.