Description
This Sloppy Joe Tater Tot Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the classic sloppy joe flavors with crispy baked tater tots and melty cheddar cheese. Ground beef, vegetables, and a savory sauce are layered and baked to perfection, making it a perfect family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb lean ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken)
- 1 yellow onion, diced small
- 1 bell pepper, diced small
- 2 carrots, diced small
- 1 cup frozen riced cauliflower
- 2 tbsp water
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt (more to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 3/4 cup ketchup
- 1 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 1/2 tsp yellow mustard (or Dijon)
Toppings
- 15-20 oz frozen tater tots
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F. Lightly grease an 8×8″ or 9×9″ baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or oil, then set it aside.
- Cook Meat: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula for 3-4 minutes until it begins to brown.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onions, bell peppers, and carrots to the skillet. Continue to sauté with the meat for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the meat is cooked through.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper, mixing thoroughly to combine all the flavors.
- Cook Cauliflower: Add the frozen riced cauliflower and water to the skillet. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Add Sauces: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the ketchup, yellow mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Arrange the frozen tater tots on top, covering the entire surface of the filling.
- Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Add Cheese: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tater tots. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes until the cheese has melted.
- Serve: Optionally, garnish with thinly sliced green onions before serving. Enjoy your hearty, flavorful Sloppy Joe Tater Tot Casserole!
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein alternative.
- For extra cheesiness, mix some cheese into the meat mixture before topping with tater tots.
- Use Dijon mustard for a slightly tangier flavor.
- To make it spicier, add some chili powder or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated well in the oven.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
