Cheesy Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 cup Sweet Baby Ray’s Hickory & Brown Sugar barbecue sauce
- 2 lbs lean ground beef
- 30 Ritz crackers, crushed
- 2 oz Lipton onion soup mix
- 2 large eggs
- 24 oz frozen tater tots
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend
- 1/4 cup real bacon bits
Directions:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Sauce Preparation:
- In a small mixing bowl, combine 1 cup ketchup and 1 cup Sweet Baby Ray’s Hickory & Brown Sugar barbecue sauce. Stir well and set aside.
- Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 lbs lean ground beef, 30 crushed Ritz crackers, 2 oz Lipton onion soup mix, 2 large eggs, and 1/2 cup of the prepared ketchup and barbecue sauce mixture. Mix thoroughly using your hands until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the remaining ketchup and barbecue sauce mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the sauce-covered meatloaf.
- Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend and 1/4 cup real bacon bits over the tater tots.
- Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for another 40 minutes, or until the ground beef is thoroughly cooked and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve hot and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures in your Cheesy Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 75 minutes | Total Time: 95 minutes
Servings: 8
Most 20 Popular Questions and Their Answers Related to Cheesy Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
- Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
- Can I use a different type of barbecue sauce?
- Yes, you can substitute with your favorite barbecue sauce for a different flavor.
- What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?
- You can use bread crumbs, crushed pretzels, or other types of crackers.
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Can I freeze leftovers?
- Yes, leftovers can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Use gluten-free crackers and ensure your barbecue sauce and onion soup mix are gluten-free.
- Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf mixture?
- Yes, finely chopped vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or carrots can be added for extra nutrition.
- What if I don’t have Lipton onion soup mix?
- You can make a homemade mix with dried onion flakes, beef bouillon granules, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and sugar.
- Is there a substitute for eggs in the meatloaf mixture?
- You can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce per egg.
- Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
- Yes, thinly sliced or diced potatoes can be used, but cooking times may vary.
- What type of cheese works best?
- A blend of mozzarella and cheddar is recommended, but any melty cheese can be used.
- Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
- Yes, turkey bacon can be used as a healthier alternative.
- How do I know when the casserole is done?
- The internal temperature of the meatloaf should reach 160°F (71°C), and the cheese should be bubbly and golden.
- Can I make this in a slow cooker?
- Yes, you can layer the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can I add extra spices to the meatloaf?
- Yes, you can add additional seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning to taste.
- What sides go well with this casserole?
- A side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread are great accompaniments.
- Can I make a smaller batch?
- Yes, you can halve the ingredients and bake in an 8×8 inch dish.
- What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or in the microwave.
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Yes, you can use any cheese that melts well, such as Colby Jack, Swiss, or Pepper Jack for a spicy kick.
By following these tips and answers to common questions, you can create a perfect Cheesy Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole that is sure to delight everyone at your table!