Cheesy Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole

Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

#### 3. **Bake the meat layer**
Bake the meatloaf base for **20–25 minutes**, just to firm it up a bit before adding toppings. Drain any excess grease if needed.

#### 4. **Add cheese and tots**
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the partially baked meatloaf. Then arrange the tater tots in a single layer across the top (feel free to line them up neatly or just pile them on—your call!).

#### 5. **Bake until golden and bubbly**
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another **25–30 minutes**, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Optional: In the last 5 minutes, drizzle a bit of ketchup over the top for that classic meatloaf tang.

#### 6. **Garnish and serve**
Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a little color, and serve hot. Pair it with a side salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.

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### 🍴 Tips & Variations

– **Make it spicy:** Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
– **Mix up the cheese:** Try pepper jack, mozzarella, or a smoky gouda for a flavor twist.
– **Add veggies:** Toss in some shredded zucchini, carrots, or chopped bell peppers to sneak in more nutrients.
– **Meal prep friendly:** This dish reheats well, making it great for leftovers or next-day lunches.

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### 😍 Final Thoughts

Cheesy Tater Tot Meatloaf Casserole is a crowd-pleasing, comfort food classic that’s both easy to make and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just craving something warm and hearty, this casserole hits the spot every single time.

So grab a fork, dig in, and don’t forget—seconds are practically guaranteed! 🍽️🥔🧀

Want a printable version or nutrition info? Just let me know!