Cheesy Meatloaf Tater Tot (Print Version)

Rich beef, cheddar cheese, and tater tots layered for an irresistible, crowd-pleasing comfort dish.

# Ingredients:

→ Meat Mixture

01 - 2 pounds ground beef
02 - 1 cup dry breadcrumbs
03 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 2 large eggs, beaten
06 - 1/2 cup ketchup
07 - 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
08 - 1 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Topping

10 - 32 ounces frozen tater tots
11 - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

# Steps:

01 - Set oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and allow to preheat fully.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, blend ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper until thoroughly incorporated.
03 - Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish, ensuring an even layer across the dish.
04 - Place frozen tater tots in a single, tight layer over the top of the meat mixture.
05 - Transfer to preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes until the tater tots begin to brown and the meat is cooked through.
06 - Evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the layer of tater tots.
07 - Return dish to oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling.
08 - Remove from oven and allow casserole to stand for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

# Notes:

01 - Allowing the casserole to rest after baking ensures cleaner portions and optimal flavor development.