Cheesy Meatloaf & Tater Tot Bake
A hearty meatloaf topped with crispy tater tots and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Meatloaf Mixture
- 1.5 lbs ground beef Rich in taste and loaded with protein.
- 0.5 cup breadcrumbs Provides texture and keeps the meatloaf moist.
- 0.33 cup milk Adds moisture and balance.
- 1 piece egg Acts as a binder.
- 1 small onion, finely diced Introduces a subtle sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds aromatic warmth.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce Enhances the meat's flavor.
- 1 tsp salt Essential for seasoning.
- 0.5 tsp black pepper Provides a gentle kick.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided Adds creaminess and flavor.
- 1 28 oz bag frozen tater tots The unique and fun crispy topping.
- 0.5 cup ketchup A sweet and tangy addition.
- Fresh parsley, for garnish Adds visual appeal.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, and ketchup until well combined.
- Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the meat mixture.
Cooking
- Bake uncovered for about 35–40 minutes until the meat is fully cooked and the tater tots are golden brown.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the baked tots and return to the oven for an additional 5–7 minutes until melted and bubbly.
- Allow to cool for 5 minutes before slicing, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Consider adding spices to the meat mixture for an extra kick. For healthier options, swap half of the ground beef with ground turkey or add vegetables like zucchini or carrots.