There’s something incredibly comforting about a casserole topped with crispy tater tots and gooey melted cheese.
This Tater Tot Casserole Sloppy Joe combines the sweet-savory flavor of sloppy joes with the crunch of golden tots, creating a dish that’s hearty, family-friendly, and guaranteed to please.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s a fun twist on two classics: sloppy joes and tater tot casserole.
The recipe uses simple ingredients and comes together in under an hour.
Perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks where comfort food is a must.
Customizable with veggies, spices, or cheese variations.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Ground beef forms the savory, hearty base.
Onions and bell peppers add sweetness and depth.
Sloppy joe sauce ties everything together with tangy-sweet flavor.
Frozen tater tots provide the crispy topping.
Cheddar cheese melts into a gooey, irresistible layer.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use lean beef to avoid excess grease in the casserole.
Make your own sloppy joe sauce for extra flavor control.
Layer the tots evenly so they bake up crisp.
Let the casserole rest 5 minutes before serving so it sets nicely.
How to Make Tater Tot Casserole Sloppy Joe
Step 1 – Preheat oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2 – Cook the beef
Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, then drain excess fat.
Step 3 – Add vegetables
Stir in onions and bell peppers, cooking until softened.
Step 4 – Stir in sauce
Mix in sloppy joe sauce, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 5 – Assemble casserole
Transfer beef mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Top with frozen tater tots.
Step 6 – Add cheese
Sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Step 7 – Bake
Bake for 30–35 minutes, until tots are crispy and cheese is melted.
Step 8 – Serve
Let rest briefly before serving hot.
What to Serve Them With
Pair with a crisp green salad to balance the richness.
Serve alongside roasted vegetables or coleslaw for freshness.
Add a side of pickles for a tangy contrast.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
Use pepper jack or mozzarella cheese for a different flavor.
Add corn or black beans for extra texture and nutrition.
Make it spicy with jalapeños or hot sauce in the filling.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months; bake straight from frozen, adding extra time.
FAQs
Can I use homemade sloppy joe sauce?
Yes, it adds great flavor and lets you control the sweetness and spice.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Do I need to thaw the tater tots first?
No, they bake best straight from frozen.
Can I use a different meat?
Ground turkey or chicken are good lighter alternatives.
How do I make it spicier?
Add hot sauce, chili flakes, or jalapeños to the beef mixture.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, use plant-based ground meat and veggie sloppy joe sauce.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Cheddar melts beautifully, but Monterey Jack or mozzarella also work.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Warm in the oven to keep the tots crispy, or microwave for convenience.
Will kids enjoy this recipe?
Absolutely, it’s a kid-friendly comfort food favorite.
Final Thoughts
This Tater Tot Casserole Sloppy Joe is the ultimate comfort meal—crispy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor.
It’s easy enough for a weeknight yet crowd-pleasing enough for gatherings. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
