Description
A hearty and comforting Sloppy Joe Casserole combining seasoned ground beef with a cheesy tater tot topping baked to golden perfection, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauces and Seasonings
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Toppings
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 cups frozen tater tots (or cooked pasta, biscuit dough, or cornbread topping as a variation)
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking your casserole.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain off any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables have softened and become fragrant.
- Add Sauces and Seasoning: Stir in the ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the sauce thicken slightly.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the sloppy joe mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the meat mixture, then arrange the frozen tater tots on top in a single layer.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. Bake until the tater tots are crispy and golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot to enjoy a comforting and flavorful meal.
Notes
- Substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian version.
- Add a dash of hot sauce or smoked paprika to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
- Leftovers reheat well, making this casserole a great option for next-day lunch.
