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Ultimate Cheesy Meatloaf & Tater Tot Bake

Imagine sinking your teeth into a dish where every bite is a melody of flavors 🎶. The Ultimate Cheesy Meatloaf & Tater Tot Bake does exactly that. It’s a cozy, comforting dish that combines the heartiness of meatloaf with the playful crunch of tater tots, all under a generous blanket of melted cheese. 🧀 The secret lies in the blend of spices used in the meatloaf, elevating it from ordinary to extraordinary. The tater tots, crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, add a delightful texture contrast, while the cheese ties everything together with its gooey goodness. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a warm hug on a plate, promising comfort and satisfaction with every bite. Perfect for gatherings, or a family dinner, it’s a recipe that speaks the language of love and comfort. 🍽️

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Updated on Sat, 04 Jan 2025 03:07:52 GMT
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Ultimate Cheesy Meatloaf & Tater Tot Bake | myhomemaderecipe.com

Indulge in the perfect blend of savory meatloaf, crispy tater tots, and gooey melted cheese with this Ultimate Cheesy Meatloaf & Tater Tot Bake. This dish combines the comforting flavors of a classic meatloaf with the fun and crispy texture of tater tots, all topped with a generous layer of melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe is sure to delight everyone at the table. Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this dish so special.

Ingredients

Here is a detailed look at the ingredients you’ll need to create the Ultimate Cheesy Meatloaf & Tater Tot Bake:

  • For the Meatloaf:
    • 2 pounds ground beef: Provides the hearty base for the meatloaf, offering rich flavor and a satisfying texture.
    • 1 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatloaf together, ensuring it holds its shape.
    • 1 onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and a slight crunch, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the meatloaf with a robust, aromatic flavor.
    • 2 eggs: Acts as a binding agent, holding all the ingredients together.
    • 1/2 cup ketchup: Adds moisture and a tangy sweetness to the meatloaf.
    • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Provides a savory, umami flavor that enhances the meat's natural taste.
    • 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients.
    • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and depth to the meatloaf.
  • For the Topping:
    • 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots: Adds a crispy, golden layer on top of the meatloaf.
    • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully over the tater tots, adding a creamy, cheesy finish.

Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create a delicious and hearty Ultimate Cheesy Meatloaf & Tater Tot Bake:

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Mix Meatloaf Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Press Mixture into Dish

Press the meatloaf mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish, creating an even layer.

Step 4: Layer Tater Tots

Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the meatloaf mixture.

Step 5: Initial Bake

Bake for 45 minutes to cook the meatloaf and crisp the tater tots slightly.

Step 6: Add Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots.

Step 7: Final Bake

Bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Let rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the dish to set.

Serving and Storage Tips

Enjoy your Ultimate Cheesy Meatloaf & Tater Tot Bake with these tips:

  • Serving: Pair with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. Garnish with parsley or chives for extra flavor.
  • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave with a damp paper towel for 2-3 minutes.

Helpful Notes and Variations

Customize your bake with these ideas:

  • Additional Toppings: Add sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, or caramelized onions for extra flavor.
  • Cheese Options: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses.
  • Spice It Up: Include red pepper flakes or hot sauce in the meatloaf mixture for a spicy kick.
  • Alternative Meats: Substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat.

Chef’s Tip: Let the bake rest before serving to ensure clean slices and enhanced flavors.

Cheesy Meatloaf Tater Tot

Embrace the warmth and joy of home-cooked meals with this Ultimate Cheesy Meatloaf & Tater Tot Bake. A heavenly blend of juicy meat, crispy potatoes, and gooey cheese, it's a dish that stands out in flavor and texture.

Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
60 Minutes
Total Time
80 Minutes
By: Zaho

Category: Dinners

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 8 Servings

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

01 2 pounds ground beef.
02 1 cup breadcrumbs.
03 1 onion, finely chopped.
04 2 cloves garlic, minced.
05 2 eggs.
06 1/2 cup ketchup.
07 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce.
08 1 teaspoon salt.
09 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
10 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots.
11 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese.

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 02

In a large bowl, mix together 2 pounds ground beef, 1 cup breadcrumbs, 1 finely chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 eggs, 1/2 cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper until well combined.

Step 03

Press the meatloaf mixture into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.

Step 04

Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the meatloaf mixture.

Step 05

Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.

Step 06

Sprinkle 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots.

Step 07

Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 08

Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 650
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrate: ~
  • Protein: ~