This Sloppy Joe Tater Tot Casserole is a hearty, cheesy, and comforting dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or a hungry family. It’s a fun twist on two favorites—Sloppy Joes and Tater Tots—combined into one irresistible casserole.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 2 cans sloppy joe mix (such as Manwich)
- 1 ½ jars nacho cheese sauce (approx. 24 oz total, or adjust to taste)
- 1 bag of tater tots (or rounds, about 32 oz)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Directions
- Prepare the Tater Tots:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F.
- Spread the tater tots in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, or until crispy.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- While the tots are baking, brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Drain any excess grease, then stir in the sloppy joe mix. Simmer for a few minutes until heated through, then set aside.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F.
- In a greased 9Ă—13-inch baking dish, layer the baked tater tots evenly on the bottom.
- Pour the sloppy joe mixture over the tots and spread evenly.
- Drizzle the nacho cheese sauce on top of the sloppy joe layer, spreading it out as evenly as possible.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake and Broil:
- Bake the casserole at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Switch the oven to broil and cook for 1-2 minutes to brown the top slightly. Watch carefully to avoid burning!
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Scoop onto plates and enjoy this cheesy, savory delight!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sloppy joe mixture for a kick.
- Veggie Boost: Mix in some diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms with the ground beef.
- Cheese Options: Swap cheddar for Colby Jack, pepper jack, or even smoked gouda for a unique twist.
- Nacho Cheese Substitute: Use Velveeta melted with a bit of milk if nacho cheese sauce isn’t available.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole (except for the shredded cheese topping) and refrigerate up to a day in advance. Add the shredded cheese before baking.
This casserole is the ultimate comfort food—crunchy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. It’s sure to be a hit at family dinners, potlucks, or game-day gatherings! 🧡🍽️