Cheesy Meatloaf Tater Tot is the ultimate comfort food that brings a smile to everyone’s face. This delightful dish combines classic meatloaf with everyone’s favorite frozen snack: tater tots! It’s an easy recipe that can be customized to fit your family’s tastes and is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without excessive prep time.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 75 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 450
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 680mg
Why Make Cheesy Meatloaf Tater Tot
Cheesy Meatloaf Tater Tot is not only delicious but also a practical choice for busy families. You get the wonderful flavors of meatloaf while adding the crispy, satisfying texture of tater tots on top. It’s a well-balanced meal that can incorporate various veggies and seasonings, making it as healthy as you want. Plus, kids love it!
How to Make Cheesy Meatloaf Tater Tot Step by Step
Ingredients
2 pounds ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 eggs
1/2 cup ketchup
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
2 cups tater tots
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, and ketchup. Mix until well combined.
- If using, fold in shredded cheese.
- Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a baking dish.
- Top the meatloaf with tater tots, spreading them evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy!
How to Serve Cheesy Meatloaf Tater Tot
Serve Cheesy Meatloaf Tater Tot with a simple green salad for a light crunch and freshness. Pair it with your favorite dipping sauces like barbecue or ranch for extra flavor. You can even add steamed vegetables on the side for a well-rounded meal.
How to Store Cheesy Meatloaf Tater Tot
After enjoying your meal, you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. Ensure it’s placed in an airtight container to retain moisture. To reheat, pop individual slices in the microwave or oven. You can also freeze the meatloaf for up to three months, making it a great meal prep option.
Expert Tips for Cooking Cheesy Meatloaf Tater Tot
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier version.
- Experiment with different cheeses, like cheddar or mozzarella, for flavor variations.
- Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat mixture for extra veggies.
- Use leftover meatloaf slices in sandwiches for a delicious lunch option.
- Make mini meatloaf muffins with tater tots for individual servings.
Delicious Variations of Cheesy Meatloaf Tater Tot
- For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or chili powder to the meat mixture.
- Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a herby flavor.
- Switch to turkey or plant-based ground meat for a lighter, vegetarian option.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cheesy Meatloaf Tater Tot
What can I serve with Cheesy Meatloaf Tater Tot?
This dish pairs wonderfully with salads, steamed veggies, or your favorite dipping sauces.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done cooking?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s reached an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
Conclusion
Cheesy Meatloaf Tater Tot is a dish you’ll want to make again and again. It’s bursting with flavor, incredibly easy to prepare, and perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and enjoy the cozy comfort it brings to your dinner table!
Cheesy Meatloaf Tater Tot
Ingredients
Meatloaf Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef Use lean ground beef for a healthier version.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 each onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 each eggs
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional) Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella.
Topping
- 2 cups tater tots
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, and ketchup. Mix until well combined.
- If using, fold in shredded cheese.
- Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a baking dish.
- Top the meatloaf with tater tots, spreading them evenly.
Cooking
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy!
