Description
This Pepperoni Pizza Tater Tot Casserole combines the beloved flavors of classic pepperoni pizza with crispy tater tots in a comforting and hearty casserole. Perfect for an easy weeknight meal, it features a savory Italian sausage and pizza sauce base, topped with melted mozzarella, pepperoni slices, and a crispy golden topping, all baked to perfection.
Ingredients
Meat and Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground mild Italian sausage
- 24 ounces pizza sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Toppings and Others
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 8 ounces whole milk mozzarella cheese (2 cups shredded)
- 1 package (6 oz) sliced pepperoni
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Casserole Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Add the olive oil into a 9x13-inch casserole dish and spread it around the bottom and sides to prevent sticking. Set the dish aside for now.
- Cook Italian Sausage: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the ground mild Italian sausage. Stir frequently until the sausage is fully browned and no longer pink, around 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from being greasy.
- Make Sauce Mixture: Add the pizza sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper to the skillet with the cooked sausage. Stir thoroughly to combine, then let this mixture simmer for 8-10 minutes until it thickens and the flavors blend well.
- Assemble Sauce Layer: Evenly spread the sausage and pizza sauce mixture into the prepared casserole dish, creating a flavorful base layer.
- Layer Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single, snug layer on top of the sauce mixture. Avoid stacking to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the layer of tater tots, providing a creamy, melty topping.
- Place Pepperoni Slices: Arrange the sliced pepperoni across the top of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Use as many slices as you prefer for a rich pepperoni flavor.
- Bake the Casserole: Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes. You'll know it's ready when the edges are bubbling, the cheese is melted and golden brown, and the pepperoni curls and crisps at the edges. The casserole should feel firm and set in the center when pressed gently.
- Finish and Rest: Remove the casserole from the oven and immediately sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving hot to let everything set and meld together.
Notes
- For an extra crispy topping, broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, watching closely to avoid burning.
- You can substitute turkey sausage for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.
- Use gluten-free pizza sauce and sausage to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
