Spaghetti and Meatballs Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Imagine the joy of cozy family gatherings paired with the comfort of a beloved classic reinvented. Our Spaghetti and Meatballs Tater Tot Casserole is a delightful twist on traditional Italian cuisine, creating a savory mosaic of flavors and textures. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish harmonizes rich spaghetti, succulent meatballs, and melty mozzarella cheese, topped with crispy, golden-brown tots. Gather around the table, indulge in this mouth-watering meal, and make unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

Recipe Summary

Ingredients

• 1 lb spaghetti
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3 cups tater tots
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh basil (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined and form into small meatballs.
4. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the meatballs on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer. Return the meatballs to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
6. In a large baking dish, combine the cooked spaghetti and meatballs with the sauce. Spread evenly and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Top with tater tots, arranging them in a single layer.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil.

Helpful Tips

• For a richer flavor: Use a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage.
• Vegetarian option: Swap meatballs with plant-based meatballs or sautéed vegetables.
• Make ahead: Prepare the casserole up to step 7, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Pairings

Complement your Spaghetti and Meatballs Tater Tot Casserole with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad. For a complete Italian-themed dinner, pair it with a glass of red wine or a sparkling water with a twist of lemon.

Conclusion

We hope this Spaghetti and Meatballs Tater Tot Casserole brings as much joy to your dinner table as it does to ours. Share your delightful creations with us using #ZynahzRecipes or tag Zynahz on Instagram. We love hearing your feedback, so don’t forget to leave a comment on our website. Subscribe to our newsletter for more inspiring recipes and follow us on social media for daily culinary inspiration. Happy cooking!