Introduction
In our journey of family bonding over hearty meals, the Sloppy Joe Tater Tot Casserole stands out as a beacon of creativity and flavor. This dish magically merges the sweet and savory goodness of traditional Sloppy Joes with the comfort of crispy golden tater tots. Imagine gathering around the dinner table, the rustic charm of casual dining embracing you as you serve this mouthwatering casserole. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe promises to bring smiles and satisfaction all around.
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups frozen tater tots
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, barbecue sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Transfer the Sloppy Joe mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the top of the Sloppy Joe mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Helpful Tips
- For a spicier kick, add a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the Sloppy Joe mixture.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- To make this recipe vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or cooked lentils.
Pairings
This delightful casserole pairs wonderfully with a side of crisp coleslaw or a fresh green salad. For drinks, consider serving a chilled lemonade or a light, fruity iced tea to complement the rich flavors of the dish.
Conclusion
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