Description
Cheesy Meatball Tater Tot Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish featuring tender meatballs layered with crispy tater tots and a blend of melted cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. This hearty casserole is perfect for a family dinner, combining savory flavors with a crisp, golden topping for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound frozen tater tots
- 1 pound cooked meatballs (beef, turkey, or chicken)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a medium skillet over medium heat, sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes, enhancing their sweetness and flavor.
- Mix Sauce and Meatballs: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the cooked meatballs and the sautéed onion and garlic mixture until everything is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the meatball and sauce mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the meatballs for a crispy topping.
- Add Cheese Topping: Evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses over the tater tots to create a rich, melted cheese layer after baking.
- Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly, indicating the dish is heated through and ready to serve.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving to add a fresh touch.
Notes
- Substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or celery soup to change the flavor profile.
- For added heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle hot sauce just before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Comfort Food
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
