Cheesy Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, egg, salt, black pepper, oregano, and thyme. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Form Meatloaf Base: Press the meatloaf mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 2: Layer the Casserole

1. Add Cheese Layer: Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the meatloaf mixture.
2. Add Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese, covering the entire surface.
3. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots.

Step 3: Bake the Casserole

1. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the tater tots are crispy and golden brown.
2. Optional Topping: If you like, drizzle a little more ketchup over the top of the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Step 4: Serve

1. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
2. Slice and Enjoy: Slice the casserole into squares and serve hot. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables.

Tips for Perfect Cheesy Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole

• Meat Options: You can use a mixture of ground beef and pork for a richer flavor, or even ground turkey for a lighter option.
• Cheese Variations: Try using different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, to add a unique twist to the dish.
• Crispy Tots: For extra crispy tater tots, you can broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Conclusion

Cheesy Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole is a delightful combination of two beloved comfort foods. The savory meatloaf base is perfectly complemented by the crispy tater tots and gooey melted cheese, making every bite a taste of home. Easy to prepare and loved by both kids and adults, this casserole is sure to become a regular on your dinner table. Enjoy this delicious, cheesy, and hearty meal with your loved ones!