Easy Sloppy Joe Tater Tot

This Sloppy Joe tater tot casserole combines two of the most beloved comfort foods into one easy, crowd-pleasing dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. With a crispy tater tot topping and cheesy, meaty Sloppy Joe filling, this casserole quickly became a favorite in my home, especially on chilly evenings when everyone just wants something warm and delicious.

I first made this recipe when looking for a quick dinner after a hectic day, and now my family requests it at least once a month. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Two pounds of ground beef for a rich and hearty base choose ground chuck for juicy flavor or lean ground beef if you want it lighter
• Manwich Sloppy Joe sauce: One 15ounce can of Manwich Sloppy Joe sauce to give that classic sweet and tangy Sloppy Joe taste you can also use homemade sauce if you prefer
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Two cups shredded cheddar cheese for creamy, melty goodness sharp cheddar works great for extra flavor
• Frozen tater tots: One 32ounce bag of frozen tater tots to create that unbeatable crispy top layer look for evenly sized tots to ensure even baking

Instructions

Sear the Meat:

Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully browned and no longer pink. Drain the excess grease carefully to avoid a soggy casserole.

Mix in Sloppy Joe Sauce:

Add the can of Manwich Sloppy Joe sauce directly to the cooked meat in the skillet or transfer to a heatproof bowl if needed. Stir thoroughly so every bit of beef is coated.

Blend in Cheese:

Add half of the shredded cheddar cheese to the meat mixture and stir until evenly distributed. This step gives the filling a melty, cheesy texture throughout.

Layer the Dish:

Grease a 9inch by 13inch casserole dish lightly with cooking spray. Pour the meat mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top.

Top With Tater Tots:

Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese. Make sure they cover the entire surface to get that perfect crust.

Bake Until Golden:

Place the casserole in a preheated 400degree oven and bake for about 45 minutes. Look for bubbling edges and golden brown tater tots.

Optional Broil for Crispiness:

If you want your tater tots extra crispy, set the oven to broil for the last three to four minutes. Keep a close eye as broiling can quickly go from perfectly crisp to burnt.

Cheddar cheese is my favorite ingredient here because it melts into every bite and balances the tangy sauce perfectly. One of my fondest memories with this dish is serving it after a long day of soccer practice, kids devour it and get the energy they need without a fuss.

Storage tips

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to four days and reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave. To keep the tater tots crispy, reheat uncovered in the oven.

Ingredient substitutions

Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner version. Swap Manwich sauce for your favorite BBQ sauce or homemade Sloppy Joe mixture for a personalized twist. Mozzarella or pepper jack cheese can replace cheddar if you want a milder or spicier flavor.

Serving suggestions

Serve with green beans, a crisp salad, or steamed corn to add freshness and balance the richness of the casserole. For a fun twist, top with sliced jalapeños or a dollop of sour cream.

Let the casserole rest five to ten minutes before serving so it sets up for easier slicing. Serve warm with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What type of meat is best for this dish?

Ground chuck or lean ground beef works well for a rich, juicy flavor. Ground turkey can be used for a lighter option.

→ Can I use homemade sauce instead of canned Sloppy Joe sauce?

Absolutely, a homemade sauce with tomato base, vinegar, and spices will provide a fresh and customizable taste.

→ How do I get crispy tater tots on top?

Baking at 400°F until golden and finishing under the broiler for 3-4 minutes ensures a crisp topping, but watch closely to prevent burning.

→ Can leftovers be stored for later?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving.

→ What sides pair well with this casserole?

Green beans, butter beans, corn, or a fresh green salad complement the rich flavors nicely.