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Mix frozen tater tots with your favorite pizza fixings for a cozy family meal that'll bring joy to dinnertime. This filling dish pairs crunchy potato nuggets with gooey cheese and tangy pepperoni, giving you those beloved pizza flavors in a totally different form.
When I first whipped this up for my sister's kids, they were torn between calling it tater tots or pizza - but they all grabbed more helpings. It's now our go-to meal whenever they sleep over.
Must-Have Components
- Tater Tots: Go for super crunchy ones - they don't get mushy in the dish
- Pizza Sauce: Pick something thick with seasonings already added
- Mozzarella: Grate it yourself for smoother melting
- Pepperoni: The mini ones spread more evenly throughout
- Parmesan: Freshly grated gives that real pizza kick
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Step 1: Getting Ready (10 minutes)
- Butter your baking dish well so nothing sticks. Spread a thin sauce layer first - too much makes your tots soggy. Put tots in straight lines for better cooking. Push them slightly together to close gaps.
- Step 2: Building Layers (15 minutes)
- Use sauce that's not cold from the fridge for easier spreading. Make a layer of pepperoni between tots and sauce. Drop cheese all over, right to the edges. Gently press each layer down.
- Step 3: Final Touches (10 minutes)
- Arrange remaining pepperoni so it covers everything evenly. Scatter parmesan all the way to the sides. Cover with foil but don't wrap tightly. Take foil off carefully so you don't mess up the toppings.
- Step 4: Cooking and Resting (35-40 minutes)
- Bake in the middle of your oven for even heating. Watch for sauce bubbling around edges. Look for spots where cheese turns golden. Let it sit before serving so it holds together.
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My high schoolers always ask for this casserole on game nights. The mix of crunchy tots and stretchy cheese keeps them coming back for extra helpings.
Warming It Up
Put foil on top and heat at 350°F until hot all the way through. Microwaving works in a pinch but the tots won't be as crunchy.
Tasty Sidekicks
Serve with basic green salad dressed with Italian dressing to balance out the richness.
Cook It Later
Put it all together up to a day ahead, keep in the fridge, and add 10 more minutes when you bake it.
Mix It Up
Switch to white sauce or pesto instead of tomato sauce for completely different tastes.
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After trying tons of pizza night options, this casserole has become our family's top pick for bringing together two comfort foods. The secret is all about stacking - you want every bite to have the right mix of crunchy tots, sauce, and melted cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use other toppings?
- Absolutely! Add things like sausage, veggies, or even pineapple between layers.
- → Do I need to thaw tater tots?
- Nope! Toss them in frozen—they'll stay nice and crispy after baking.
- → Can I prep this in advance?
- Sure, you can assemble it a day early and chill it. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes in the oven if it's cold.
- → What's the best way to reheat it?
- Warm up in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes to keep its texture just right.
- → Is it okay to freeze this dish?
- Yes, go ahead and freeze it for up to three months. Defrost overnight before reheating.