Introduction
Sloppy Joe Tater Tot Casserole is a comforting, family-friendly dish that combines the sweet and tangy flavors of classic sloppy joes with the crispy, golden crunch of tater tots. It’s hearty, budget-friendly, and perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or game-day gatherings. This casserole brings together ground beef, a rich sloppy joe sauce, gooey melted cheese, and a crispy potato topping for a meal that pleases both kids and adults.
Ingredients
1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken)
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz / 425 g) sloppy joe sauce (or make homemade with ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce)
1 cup frozen corn or mixed vegetables (optional, for extra nutrition)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
1 bag (32 oz / 900 g) frozen tater tots
1–2 tbsp olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Cooking spray (for greasing the casserole dish)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) casserole dish.
Cook the beef mixture: In a large skillet, heat oil or butter over medium heat. Add onion, pepper, and garlic, sauté until softened (about 3–4 minutes). Add ground beef, cook until browned and crumbly. Drain excess grease.
Add sauce: Stir in sloppy joe sauce (or homemade mixture) and optional vegetables. Let simmer for 3–5 minutes so flavors blend. Season with salt and pepper if needed.
Layer in casserole: Spread beef mixture evenly in the prepared dish. Sprinkle with 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
Top with tots: Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.
Bake: Place casserole in oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, until tots are golden brown and crispy.
Finish with cheese: Sprinkle remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the tots and bake another 5 minutes, until melted and bubbly.
Serve: Let cool slightly before serving.
Description
This casserole is a cozy blend of tangy sloppy joe filling, sweet veggies, melted cheddar, and a crispy crown of tater tots. Each bite delivers a balance of saucy, cheesy, and crunchy textures, making it an irresistible comfort food classic.
Tips and Variations
Make it spicier: Add chili powder, hot sauce, or jalapeños to the beef mixture.
Healthier option: Use ground turkey or chicken, reduced-fat cheese, and sweet potato tots.
Homemade sauce: Combine ¾ cup ketchup, 1 tbsp mustard, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, and 1–2 tbsp brown sugar as a substitute for canned sloppy joe sauce.
Cheese swap: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
Extra veggies: Mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach can be mixed into the beef for added nutrition.
Make ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Correction
Some recipes skip layering cheese under the tots, but adding that first layer of cheese between the meat and potatoes creates a gooier, more satisfying bite and helps hold the casserole together better.
Enjoy
Serve hot with a crisp side salad, roasted veggies, or even just a pickle on the side. Whether it’s for a casual family dinner or a party-friendly potluck dish, Sloppy Joe Tater Tot Casserole is sure to disappear fast!