Name: Tater Tot Pizza Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup pizza sauce; 1 cup pepperoni slices, divided; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots; 1 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

This Tater Tot Pizza Casserole is a fun and hearty dish that merges two family favorites—pizza and tater tots—into one easy, comforting meal. Layers of ground beef, pizza sauce, gooey cheese, and crispy tater tots come together in a baked casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a game day gathering. Tater Tot Pizza Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe takes simple ingredients and transforms them into something that’s both nostalgic and satisfying. It’s a crowd-pleaser, especially among kids and picky eaters, and it offers plenty of room for customization. Whether I’m cooking for a family dinner or need a make-ahead meal, this casserole hits the mark every time.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Pizza sauce
Pepperoni slices
Mozzarella cheese, shredded
Cheddar cheese, shredded
Tater tots (frozen)
Olive oil or cooking spray
Garlic powder
Dried oregano
Salt and pepper

directions

I start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a skillet over medium heat, I cook the ground beef until browned, seasoning it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano.
Once the beef is cooked through, I drain any excess fat and stir in the pizza sauce.
I spread the beef and sauce mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased casserole dish.
I layer half the pepperoni slices on top, then sprinkle on the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.
I arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese, making sure the entire surface is covered.
I add the remaining pepperoni slices over the tater tots.
I bake the casserole uncovered for about 35–40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy and the cheese is bubbling.
I let it cool slightly before serving for easier slicing.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6 people. The total time to make it is approximately 50 minutes, including prep and baking time. Prep time is around 10–15 minutes, while baking takes about 35–40 minutes.

Variations

When I want to switch things up, I like adding cooked Italian sausage or crumbled bacon for extra flavor. For a veggie-packed version, I mix in chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions with the meat. I sometimes swap out the cheddar cheese for a spicier pepper jack or add a drizzle of ranch or hot sauce before serving.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I either pop portions into the microwave for a couple of minutes or warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through. For best texture, I prefer the oven method since it keeps the tater tots crispier.

FAQs

What kind of pizza sauce works best?

I like using a thick, flavorful pizza sauce to ensure the casserole doesn’t get too watery. Store-bought or homemade both work well.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, I often assemble it in advance and store it in the refrigerator until I’m ready to bake. I just add an extra 5–10 minutes to the bake time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Do I need to thaw the tater tots first?

No, I use them straight from the freezer. Thawed tots can become soggy during baking.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! I replace the ground beef with a meat substitute or more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.

How do I prevent the tater tots from getting soggy?

I make sure not to overcrowd the casserole and always bake it uncovered so the tots crisp up nicely.

Conclusion

Tater Tot Pizza Casserole is one of those dishes that feels like a treat every time I make it. It’s easy to put together, fun to eat, and endlessly customizable. Whether I’m feeding a hungry family or prepping meals for the week, it’s a recipe I return to again and again.