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Sloppy Joe Tater Tot Casserole

This Sloppy Joe Tater Tot Casserole is cheesy, hearty, and packed with savory sloppy joe beef filling, rich sauce, melty cheddar cheese, and crispy golden tater tots. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, game days, and family dinners, this comforting casserole combines everything people love about a classic sloppy joe casserole with crispy potato topping. Whether you’re searching for a cozy sloppy joe cornbread casserole, lighter healthy casserole recipes, hearty cowboy casserole, or classic hamburger casserole recipes, this easy dinner is always a crowd favorite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Sloppy Joe Filling
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 onion diced
  • 1/2 green bell pepper diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup sloppy joe sauce
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • For the Casserole
  • 1 bag frozen tater tots
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley optional

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly grease a baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
  3. Add onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Stir in sloppy joe sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
  5. Transfer sloppy joe mixture to the prepared baking dish.
  6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the filling.
  7. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.
  8. Bake for 30–35 minutes until tater tots are crispy and golden brown.
  9. Allow casserole to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Lean ground beef helps reduce excess grease.
  • Sharp cheddar cheese adds the best flavor.
  • Add jalapeños for a spicy variation.
  • Ground turkey can be substituted for beef.
  • Store leftovers refrigerated for up to 4 days.