Cheesy Pizza Tater Tot Casserole

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Golden, crispy tater tots drenched in gooey melted cheese and layered with zesty pizza toppings—this Cheesy Pizza Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mashup. It’s a family-friendly weeknight dinner that captures the essence of pizza night in one hot, bubbly baking dish. Each bite delivers a combination of textures and flavors: crunchy edges, cheesy pulls, and that unmistakable taste of pepperoni and herbs.

This dish is not only simple to prepare, but it’s also endlessly customizable. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or looking to clean out the fridge, you can swap in your favorite pizza toppings or sneak in some veggies under all that melty cheese. It’s the kind of meal that makes weeknight cooking feel indulgent without the fuss.

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Ingredients for this Cheesy Pizza Tater Tot Casserole

• 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup pizza sauce (or marinara)
• 1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices (or chopped regular pepperoni)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional garnish)
• Cooking spray or a bit of oil for greasing

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Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a thin layer of oil to prevent sticking.

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Step 2: Layer the Sauce

Spread the pizza sauce evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish. This forms the flavorful base and keeps the tots moist without getting soggy.

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Step 3: Add Half the Tater Tots

Arrange half of the tater tots in a single layer over the sauce. Don’t worry if there are small gaps—just make sure they’re relatively even to ensure crispness.

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Step 4: Add Cheese and Pepperoni

Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella and half of the Parmesan over the tots. Then scatter half of the pepperoni slices across the top.

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Step 5: Repeat the Layers

Add the remaining tater tots, followed by the rest of the mozzarella, Parmesan, and pepperoni. Finish with a sprinkle of garlic powder and Italian seasoning for extra flavor.

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Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the tater tots are crisp.

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Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

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Storage Instructions

To store leftover Cheesy Pizza Tater Tot Casserole, allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10–15 minutes until warmed through and crispy on top.

For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Wrap individual portions or the entire dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: ~420
• Total Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 950mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 38g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 15g

Note: Nutrition may vary based on specific brands and substitutions used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. What can I use instead of pepperoni?

Try sausage, cooked bacon, ham, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian version.

3. Is there a way to make it healthier?

Use low-fat cheese, turkey pepperoni, and add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.

4. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?

Tater tots are essential for the texture, but you could try pre-roasted diced potatoes—just note the texture may differ.

5. How do I keep the tater tots crispy?

Bake uncovered and avoid over-layering. Broil for a few minutes at the end if you want extra crispiness.

6. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger baking dish or two smaller ones, and you may need to adjust the baking time slightly.

7. Is it gluten-free?

Most tater tots and pizza sauces are gluten-free, but always check labels to confirm. Use certified gluten-free products to be sure.

8. Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Add a layer of sautéed onions, mushrooms, or bell peppers under the cheese for extra nutrition.

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