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Kitchen Equipment
To make this delicious casserole, you’ll need:
- A 9×13-inch baking dish
- A large mixing bowl
- A skillet for sautéing onions (optional)
- A spatula for serving
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when you assemble the casserole.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork (if using), chopped onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together using your hands or a spoon until the ingredients are well combined but not overworked.
3. Spread the Meatloaf Mixture
Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, creating a flat, even layer. This will be the base of your casserole.
4. Layer the Tater Tots
Take the frozen tater tots and arrange them in a single layer over the meatloaf base. You can pack them tightly together to ensure full coverage. The tater tots will crisp up nicely as they bake, giving the dish a crunchy top layer.
5. Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through (it should reach an internal temperature of 160°F) and the tater tots are golden and crispy.
6. Add the Cheese
Once the casserole is baked, remove it from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tater tots. Return the casserole to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
7. Serve
After the cheese has melted, remove the casserole from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
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