Easy Sloppy Joe Tater Tot

This easy Sloppy Joe tater tot casserole brings together two beloved comfort foods into one simple crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This casserole combines savory ground beef mixed with classic Sloppy Joe sauce, a layer of melted cheddar cheese, and a crispy topping of tater tots baked to golden perfection.

I first made this dish on a chilly evening when my family craved something warm and filling. It was a hit right away and has since become a goto recipe when I want comfort food with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

• Two pounds of ground beef: provides a rich and meaty base choose fresh, lean ground beef for best flavor and less grease
• One 15ounce can of Manwich Sloppy Joe sauce: adds that classic tangy and slightly sweet taste look for wellsealed cans with no dents or rust
• Two cups of shredded cheddar cheese: bring melty, sharp richness freshly shredded cheese melts better than preshredded varieties coated with anti clumping agents
• Thirtytwo ounces of frozen tater tots: supply a crunchy golden topping opt for highquality tots with a crisp coating that hold up well in baking

Instructions

Sauté the Ground Beef:

Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until fully browned. Stir occasionally to break up the meat, then drain the excess grease to avoid a soggy casserole.

Combine the Sloppy Joe Sauce and Cheese:

Add the can of Sloppy Joe sauce directly to the cooked ground beef and stir thoroughly to combine. Then mix in one cup of shredded cheddar cheese to melt into the mixture creating a creamy, savory filling.

Prepare the Casserole Dish:

Lightly grease a 9inch by 13inch casserole dish using cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Assemble the Layers:

Spread the beef and Sloppy Joe mixture evenly across the casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top to add an extra cheesy layer beneath the tots.

Add the Tater Tots:

Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer covering the cheese and meat mixture. This layering ensures each tot crisps nicely during baking.

Bake to Perfection:

Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for approximately 45 minutes until the tater tots are golden brown and crisp on top.

Optional Broil for Crispiness:

For extra crunchy tater tots, broil the casserole for an additional three to four minutes. Watch closely as tots can burn quickly under the broiler.

Cheddar cheese is my favorite ingredient here because it melts beautifully and balances the tanginess of the Sloppy Joe sauce. I remember the first time I made this casserole for a weekend family gathering everyone asked for seconds and the leftover portions disappeared by the next day.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter version. You can swap boxed or homemade Sloppy Joe sauce if you prefer to control the spice levels. Mozzarella or pepper jack cheese can be used instead of cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside green beans, a simple salad, or corn on the cob to add freshness and balance the richness. A tangy coleslaw pairs nicely with the hearty casserole to add crunch and acidity.

Enjoy this hearty casserole straight from the oven for maximum crispiness. Leftovers reheat well for an easy next day meal.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative and still pairs nicely with the savory sauce and cheddar cheese.

→ How do I achieve crispy tater tots topping?

Bake the casserole as directed, then broil the assembled tater tots for 3-4 minutes while keeping an eye to avoid burning.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can assemble the casserole earlier, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh when ready to serve for best texture.

→ What sides pair well with this casserole?

Green beans, corn, or a fresh salad complement the richness and balance this hearty dish.

→ Is it possible to use homemade sauce instead of canned?

Absolutely, a homemade tomato-based sauce with spices can replace the canned sauce for a personalized flavor.