Mac and Cheese Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

There’s something truly magical about bringing family together around the dinner table with a dish that’s both comforting and fun. Our Mac and Cheese Tater Tot Casserole is the perfect fusion of creamy, cheesy macaroni and the crispy, golden delight of tater tots. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Whether you’re looking for a new family favorite or a dish that captures the essence of a cozy, joyful gathering, this casserole will hit all the right notes. Perfect for a weekend dinner or a special occasion, it adds a whimsical twist to classic comfort food that both kids and adults will love!

Recipe Summary

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1 package (32 ounces) frozen tater tots
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for about 1 minute, until bubbly.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Reduce heat to low and stir in 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Add salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well.
7. Stir in the cooked macaroni until well coated with the cheese sauce. Pour the macaroni and cheese into the prepared baking dish.
8. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the mac and cheese. Sprinkle remaining 0.5 cups of cheddar cheese over the tater tots.
9. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
10. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

Helpful Tips

If you’d like to make this dish even more exciting, consider adding cooked bacon bits or sliced hot dogs to the macaroni and cheese mixture before baking. For a spicier kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top of the tater tots before baking. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and flour.

Storage Instructions

This casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have elbow macaroni, feel free to use any short pasta shape like penne or shells. For a different cheese flavor, try mixing in Monterey Jack or Gruyère cheese.

Pairings

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad and a glass of chilled white wine, like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. For a refreshing non-alcoholic option, serve with homemade lemonade.

We hope this Mac and Cheese Tater Tot Casserole brings as much joy and togetherness to your table as it does to ours. We’d love to see your creations! Share your delicious dishes using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram. Don’t forget to leave your feedback on our website https://www.zynahz.com/. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and follow us on social media for more inspiring recipes and cooking tips. Happy cooking!