Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tater Tot Pizza Casserole is a perfect fusion of two beloved comfort foods: pizza and tater tots. This dish features a crispy tater tot crust topped with a savory pizza-inspired filling, including pepperoni, sausage, mozzarella, and all your favorite pizza toppings. It’s easy to make, kid-friendly, and ideal for busy weeknights or even game day. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder that requires minimal cleanup, making it as convenient as it is delicious.

Ingredients

1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
1 lb ground Italian sausage or beef (or use turkey for a lighter option)
1 (15 oz) jar pizza sauce (or marinara)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 (3.5 oz) package sliced pepperoni
½ cup diced bell peppers (optional)
½ cup sliced black olives (optional)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp garlic powder
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Spread frozen tater tots evenly in the dish. Bake for 15 minutes to crisp them up (no need to thaw).
In a skillet, brown the sausage or beef until fully cooked. Drain excess grease and stir in pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
Spread the meat sauce over the partially baked tater tots. Top with mozzarella, cheddar, pepperoni, and any veggies.
Return to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Broil for 1-2 minutes for extra crispiness (optional).
Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian: Skip the meat and add more veggies, like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
Extra Crispy: Use extra crispy tater tots for maximum crunch.
Spicy: Add jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm, or use an air fryer for a crispy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken works great as a lighter option.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

3. Can I freeze Tater Tot Pizza Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.

4. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen tater tots?

While fresh potatoes can be used, frozen tater tots provide a better crispy crust.

5. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, just omit the meat and add extra veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions.

6. Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can use provolone, parmesan, or gouda for different flavors.

7. Can I make this in a smaller dish?

Yes, just adjust the ingredient quantities for a smaller dish.

8. Can I skip the pepperoni?

Yes, feel free to add any other toppings or skip the pepperoni altogether.

9. How do I prevent the tater tots from becoming soggy?

Make sure to bake the tater tots for 15 minutes before adding the sauce and toppings to ensure they crisp up.

10. Can I serve this with a side dish?

Yes, a side salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this casserole.

Conclusion

Tater Tot Pizza Casserole is a family-friendly, indulgent meal that brings all the flavors of pizza with the crispy goodness of tater tots. It’s quick, customizable, and perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a game day snack. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Tater Tot Pizza Casserole

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Chef Sara
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Tater Tot Pizza Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mashup, combining the crispy goodness of tater tots with all the delicious flavors of pizza. This easy, kid-friendly dish features a savory pizza-inspired filling topped with mozzarella, cheddar, pepperoni, sausage, and your favorite pizza toppings. Perfect for busy weeknights, game day, or a casual dinner, this one-dish casserole is quick to make and requires minimal cleanup. It’s a hearty, family-friendly meal that’s sure to be a hit with everyone.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Spread frozen tater tots evenly in the dish. Bake for 15 minutes to crisp them up (no need to thaw).
In a skillet, brown the sausage or beef until fully cooked. Drain excess grease and stir in pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
Spread the meat sauce over the partially baked tater tots. Top with mozzarella, cheddar, pepperoni, and any veggies.
Return to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Broil for 1–2 minutes for extra crispiness (optional).
Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Notes

Vegetarian: Skip the meat and add more veggies, like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.

Extra Crispy: Use extra crispy tater tots for maximum crunch.

Spicy: Add jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.

Storage/Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or use an air fryer for a crispy texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Casserole, Comfort Food, Family Meal
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American