INTRODUCTION
Are you looking for a dish that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table? The Cheesy Meatloaf Tater Tot is just the ticket! This delightful recipe combines the rich flavors of hearty meatloaf with the crunchy goodness of tater tots. Topped with melted cheese, this dish promises to be a hit with everyone. Whether you’re serving it to family on a busy weekday or making it for friends at a gathering, this meal is sure to satisfy.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
This recipe is not only easy to make but also very tasty. The combination of juicy ground beef, flavorful spices, and crispy tater tots creates a dish that is both filling and comforting. Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy topping, and it’s a fun twist on traditional meatloaf. Plus, you can prepare it in one dish, making cleanup a breeze. It is comfort food at its best!
HOW TO MAKE Cheesy Meatloaf Tater Tot
Making Cheesy Meatloaf Tater Tot is simple and straightforward. Here’s how to do it step by step.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
To make this delicious dish, you will need a few basic kitchen tools:
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Fork or spatula for mixing
- Oven mitts for safety
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Make sure everything is well combined.
- Press the meatloaf mixture into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish evenly.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the meatloaf mixture. This creates a crispy topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. The meatloaf should cook through during this time.
- After 45 minutes, take the dish out and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set a bit.
HOW TO SERVE Cheesy Meatloaf Tater Tot
Cheesy Meatloaf Tater Tot is best served warm. You can cut it into squares and plate it. This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You could also serve it with extra ketchup or barbecue sauce on the side for dipping if you enjoy those flavors.
STORAGE & FREEZING: Cheesy Meatloaf Tater Tot
You can store leftover Cheesy Meatloaf Tater Tot in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it a great option for meal prep or enjoying leftovers. If you want to freeze it, let the dish cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil or put it in a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
This dish is filling enough to stand on its own, but here are some great serving suggestions:
- Pair with a simple side salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve with garlic bread for a carb-loaded feast.
- Add some steamed broccoli or green beans for a healthy touch.
VARIATIONS
Feel free to get creative with this dish! Here are some variations you can try:
- Add Vegetables: You can toss in some chopped bell peppers or carrots in the meat mixture.
- Spicy Version: Add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to give it a spicy kick!
- Different Cheese: Instead of cheddar, try mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for different flavors.
- Bacon: Crumble some cooked bacon into the meat mixture for an extra savory taste.
FAQs
1. Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Yes! You can substitute ground turkey for a lighter version of this dish.
2. What if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
You can use crushed crackers or oats as a substitute for breadcrumbs.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture and assemble it in the baking dish the night before. Just cover and refrigerate it and bake it when you are ready.
4. How do I know when the meatloaf is cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C) to ensure the meatloaf is fully cooked.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Cheesy Meatloaf Tater Tot
If you’re busy during the week but still want to enjoy this delicious meal, consider these make-ahead tips:
- Prepare the meat mixture a day in advance. Store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
- You can also completely assemble the dish the night before. Cover it with foil and place it in the fridge. Bake it straight from the fridge, but be sure to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
- For an easy weeknight dinner, you can even freeze the assembled dish. Just remove from the freezer the night before and let it thaw in the fridge before baking.
In conclusion, the Cheesy Meatloaf Tater Tot is a delightful dish that combines the best of both worlds: classic meatloaf flavors and crispy tater tots. With easy preparation and delightful taste, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!
Cheesy Meatloaf Tater Tot
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the meatloaf mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Remove the dish and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.