Cheesy Meatball Tater Tot Casserole

Cheesy Meatball Tater Tot Casserole

Introduction:

If you’re in the mood for a comforting, hearty dish that combines crispy tater tots, savory meatballs, and a creamy cheese sauce, this Cheesy Meatball Tater Tot Casserole is exactly what you need. It’s a deliciously indulgent meal that is perfect for family dinners, game nights, or when you want to treat yourself to something filling and flavorful. This recipe is simple to prepare and is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. The combination of crispy and tender textures with the cheesy, creamy sauce will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients:

• 1 bag frozen tater tots (about 32 ounces)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon oil (for frying)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Method:

1. Prepare the Meatballs:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
   • Roll the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
   • Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. The meatballs don’t need to be fully cooked through as they’ll continue cooking in the casserole. Set the meatballs aside.
2. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Assemble the Casserole:
   • In a large bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth.
   • In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread out an even layer of frozen tater tots.
   • Add the browned meatballs on top of the tater tots.
   • Pour the soup mixture evenly over the meatballs and tater tots.
   • Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top.
4. Bake:
   • Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are crispy, the meatballs are fully cooked, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
   • If the top is browning too quickly, you can cover the casserole with foil for the first 20 minutes of baking and remove it for the last 15-20 minutes.
5. Serve:
   • Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to cool slightly.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve hot.

Conclusion:

Cheesy Meatball Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that brings together the satisfying crunch of tater tots, the savory taste of homemade meatballs, and the creamy richness of melted cheese. It’s a dish that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters and can easily be adapted with different types of cheese or additional veggies. Whether you’re making it for a casual family meal or a special gathering, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that delivers on flavor and texture in every bite!