Pizza Tot Casserole

Introduction

What happens when two comfort food legends collide? You get the ultimate weeknight dinner: Pizza Tot Casserole. With all the classic flavors of your favorite slice layered over crispy tater tots, this dish is a family-friendly, crowd-pleasing mashup of nostalgia and flavor.

Perfect for busy nights, potlucks, or lazy weekends, this casserole is a no-fuss recipe that’s endlessly customizable and packed with gooey cheese, savory sauce, and golden tots.

Ingredients List

1 (28 oz) bag frozen tater tots
1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (15 oz) can pizza sauce or marinara
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup mini pepperoni or sliced pepperoni
Optional toppings: sliced olives, green peppers, mushrooms, jalapeños

Substitutions:

Use ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian version.
Swap pizza sauce with a low-sugar marinara for fewer carbs.
Add your favorite pizza toppings to personalize.

Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the meat

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until browned. Add garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes. Drain excess grease.

Step 2: Mix the sauce

Stir in pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Let simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Layer the casserole

Preheat oven to 400°F. In a greased 9×13 baking dish, spread the meat mixture evenly. Layer tater tots on top in a single layer. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the tots, then add pepperoni and other desired toppings.

Step 4: Bake

Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until tots are golden and cheese is bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Tip: For extra-crispy tots, bake them separately for 10 minutes before layering.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	460
Fat	27g
Carbs	32g
Protein	22g
Sodium	780mg
Fiber	3g

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or roasted broccoli.
Serve with a side of ranch or marinara for dipping.
Slice and serve as party food or game-day snacks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the simmer: Letting the sauce simmer boosts flavor.
Overloading toppings: Too many moist toppings can make the casserole soggy.
Underbaking: Make sure the tots are fully golden and crispy.

Storing Tips

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Use an oven or air fryer to retain crispiness.
Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F until heated through.

Conclusion

Pizza Tot Casserole combines the crispy joy of tater tots with the cheesy, saucy goodness of pizza—all baked into one irresistible dish. It’s easy, delicious, and totally adaptable.