There’s something incredibly cozy and nostalgic about casseroles, don’t you think? For me, one dish that never fails to bring back warm memories is my Cheesy Meatball Tater Tot Casserole. I remember the first time I made it for a family gathering, and the looks on everyone’s faces when they took that first bite—it was a magical moment. All those gooey layers of cheesy goodness paired with juicy meatballs and crispy tater tots created a flavor explosion that made them instantly hooked!
This recipe is a family favorite, no doubt, because it strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and convenience. On busy weeknights, I can whip it up in a jiffy without compromising on flavor. Plus, it’s the kind of casserole that disappears faster than you can say, “seconds, please!” So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this cheesy delight together!
What’s in Cheesy Meatball Tater Tot Casserole?
- Ground beef or Italian sausage: I usually go with Italian sausage for that extra burst of flavor, but ground beef works just as well. Either choice delivers a savory punch!
- Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs together. I like to use Italian-style breadcrumbs for an added flavor dimension.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: This cheese adds depth and a nutty flavor to my meatballs—never skip it!
- Fresh parsley: Optional, but I love the fresh touch it adds. Plus, it makes the dish look colorful!
- Garlic powder and onion powder: These spices are the unassuming heroes of flavor in this recipe! They complement the meat perfectly.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning. Adjust to your taste, but a little pinch goes a long way.
- Egg: An important binding agent that helps hold the meatballs together while baking.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: The star of the show! The melted cheese on top adds that gooey goodness we all crave.
- Cream of mushroom soup: This creamy sauce serves as a moisture-rich layer, making the casserole sumptuous.
- Milk: Helps thin out the soup, creating a lovely sauce that seeps into the meatballs.
- Frozen tater tots: The classic topping that elevates this dish to a whole new level of comfort food. They get wonderfully crispy while baking!
- Additional shredded cheese: Because you can never have too much cheese, right?
Is Cheesy Meatball Tater Tot Casserole Good for You?
Well, this casserole is definitely not winning any health awards, but it’s certainly one that warms the soul! On a bright note, ground beef or Italian sausage is an excellent source of protein, while Parmesan cheese adds calcium to your diet. The fresh parsley gives you a hint of greenery—baby steps to eating healthy, right?
However, let’s be real—this dish is heavy on the indulgence. The combination of cream of mushroom soup and shredded cheddar cheese means you’re looking at a calorie-rich meal. Enjoy it in moderation, or pair it with a crisp salad or steamed veggies on the side to balance it out. Remember, it’s all about that yin and yang, folks!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 egg
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 32 oz frozen tater tots
- Additional shredded cheese for topping (optional)
How to Make Cheesy Meatball Tater Tot Casserole?
- First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Trust me, you want that oven nice and hot to get those tater tots crispy!
- In a large bowl, combine your choice of ground beef or Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and egg. Mix it all together until everything is well combined. It’s okay to roll up those sleeves and get a little messy!
- Now, form the meat mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, making sure they are evenly spaced.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until it’s smooth. Pour this creamy goodness over the meatballs, making sure they’re all covered.
- Carefully layer the frozen tater tots on top of the meatballs and soup mixture, covering everything evenly like a cozy blanket.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the tater tots. If you’re feeling extra cheesy (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t?), add more cheese to your heart’s content!
- Bake in your preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the meatballs are cooked through.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before digging in. It’s always a good idea to let it rest—it helps the flavors meld and makes serving easier.
Tips for the Ultimate Cheesy Meatball Tater Tot Casserole
- For a flavor upgrade, feel free to mix in some diced onions or bell peppers into the meat mixture.
- If you want to spice things up, consider adding jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce for a kick!
- Pair this filling casserole with a light side salad to balance the richness and elevate your meal.
After making this Cheesy Meatball Tater Tot Casserole, I bet it’ll find a recurring spot in your dinner rotation. It’s effortless comfort food that satisfies even the hungriest of appetites! I encourage you to give it a whirl, and please share your experience—I’d love to hear how it goes! So roll up your sleeves and get ready for a cheesy feast!
