Step-by-step instructions

Let’s dive into the preparation of this mouthwatering casserole. Here’s how to make it:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until browned, breaking it up into crumbles. Drain any excess grease.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked meat mixture, marinara sauce, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, pepperoni slices, bacon bits, diced green bell pepper, diced onion, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
4. Arrange a layer of frozen tater tots at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Spread the prepared meat mixture evenly over the tater tots in the baking dish.
6. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the meat mixture.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are crispy and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Best ways to enjoy it

Serving this Meat Lover’s Pizza Tot Casserole is simple and fun! Pair it with a fresh green salad to add some crunch, or serve it with garlic bread for that true pizza night feeling. You could even throw in some dipping sauces like ranch or marinara on the side to elevate the experience.

Storage and reheating tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, no worries! Store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This dish also freezes well—if you want to save some for later, consider freezing portions in individual servings for easy meals down the line.

Helpful cooking tips

Here are a few tips to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time:

• Make sure to drain the grease from the cooked meat to avoid a soggy casserole.
• You can customize by adding your favorite pizza toppings—like olives or mushrooms—into the meat mixture.
• If you want a little kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the meat mixture before baking.

Creative twists

Want to change things up? Here are some variations you can try with this recipe:

• Veggie Lover’s Version: Sub the meats for extra veggies like spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian alternative.
• Barbecue Style: Swap the marinara sauce for barbecue sauce and add cooked chicken for a smoky twist.
• Buffalo Chicken: Add shredded cooked chicken tossed in buffalo sauce for a spicy kick.

Common questions

How long does it take to prepare?

The prep time is around 15-20 minutes, with an additional 25-30 minutes for baking.

Can I use fresh tater tots instead of frozen?

Frozen tater tots work best for this recipe as they retain their crisp while baking. If you use fresh, adjust the baking time as they may require longer to cook.

Is this casserole suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! Just be sure to cool it completely before placing it in an airtight container for freezing. It can be frozen for up to three months.

Related posts:

Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole Cheddar Bay Beef Cobbler Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Potato Casserole Meat Lovers Pizza Casserole