Pizza Tater Tot Casserole (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Base

01 - 1 pound ground beef or turkey
02 - 1/2 onion, chopped
03 - 1 can (425 g) pizza sauce or marinara sauce

→ Seasonings

04 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
05 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Toppings

07 - 1 bag (907 g) frozen tater tots
08 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
09 - 1/2 cup pepperoni slices, optional
10 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, optional

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly grease or line a 23x33 cm (9x13 inch) baking dish with parchment paper.
02 - In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef or turkey with chopped onion until cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
03 - Stir in the pizza or marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to combine flavors.
04 - Evenly spread the meat mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the surface. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.
05 - Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crisp.
06 - Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and pepperoni slices if using. Return to the oven for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan before serving.

# Notes:

01 - Ground turkey may be substituted for beef for a lighter option.
02 - Marinara sauce can be used if pizza sauce is unavailable.
03 - Add grated Parmesan cheese after baking for a boost of umami.