SLOPPY JOE TATER TOT CASSEROLE

Sloppy Joe Tater Tot Casserole combines the saucy, savory flavor of classic sloppy joes with the crispy, cheesy deliciousness of tater tots. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or game day gatherings. With a layer of seasoned beef, tangy tomato sauce, melted cheddar, and crunchy tater tots, this casserole is a comfort food favorite that even picky eaters will devour.

If you loved our Cheeseburger Casserole or Tater Tot Taco Bake, this fun twist on sloppy joes will be your next go-to dinner recipe. It’s a guaranteed family favorite!

What is Sloppy Joe Tater Tot Casserole?

Sloppy Joe Tater Tot Casserole is a layered dinner dish that takes all the sweet and tangy goodness of sloppy joes and transforms it into a baked casserole with crispy tater tots and gooey cheese. As the saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this dish is a quick way to everyone’s heart.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Here’s what makes this casserole a standout:

• Kid-friendly and picky-eater approved

• Uses easy, everyday ingredients

• Delivers crispy, cheesy, comforting flavor in every bite

This is the kind of dish that earns a spot in your regular dinner rotation.

How to Make Sloppy Joe Tater Tot Casserole

Quick Overview

Cook your sloppy joe mixture, layer it in a dish, top with cheese and tater tots, then bake until bubbly and golden brown.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound lean ground beef

• 1/2 medium yellow or sweet onion, diced

• 1/2 green bell pepper, diced

• 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce

• 1/2 cup ketchup

• 1 1/2 tablespoons packed brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 (8-ounce) package sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

• 1 (30-ounce) package frozen tater tots (use about 2/3 of the bag)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Set oven to 450°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the Beef Mixture: In a large nonstick skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and bell pepper over medium heat until beef is cooked through and veggies are soft. Drain excess fat.

3. Add Sloppy Joe Sauce: Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and pepper. Simmer for 3 to 5 minutes and then remove from heat.

4. Layer the Casserole:

   • Spread the beef mixture into the prepared baking dish.

   • Sprinkle a little more than half of the shredded cheese on top.

   • Add tater tots in an even layer over the cheese (use about 2/3 of the bag).

   • Sprinkle remaining cheese over the tater tots.

5. Bake: Bake for about 25 minutes, or until tater tots are golden brown and crispy.

What to Serve with Tater Tot Casserole

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a simple green salad, steamed veggies, or a side of coleslaw. For a heartier spread, add cornbread or garlic bread.

Top Tips for the Best Casserole

• Use lean ground beef: Prevents the dish from being too greasy.

• Customize the veggies: Add mushrooms, corn, or jalapeños for extra flavor.

• Cheese matters: Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor, or mix in mozzarella for extra gooeyness.

• Tater tot tip: Place them in a single layer for even crisping.

• Bake uncovered: This keeps the tots nice and crunchy.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until hot. For best texture, reheat in the oven to maintain the crisp topping.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, it’s a great lower-fat option.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely—assemble it, cover, and refrigerate up to a day ahead. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting cold.

Can I freeze it? Yes, freeze before or after baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake until hot and bubbly.

Can I use a different cheese? Of course! Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a twist.

Can I add more veggies? Definitely! Add carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

Conclusion

Sloppy Joe Tater Tot Casserole is the perfect mash-up of classic comfort foods, combining the bold, tangy flavor of sloppy joes with the crispy satisfaction of cheesy tater tots. It’s easy, fun, and a guaranteed dinner win. Make it tonight and enjoy every bite!