Pepperoni Pizza Tater Tot Casserole – The Ultimate Comfort Dinner
There are certain dishes that just wrap you in comfort the moment you take that first bite, and this Pepperoni Pizza Tater Tot Casserole is one of them. It’s got the crispy, golden crunch of tater tots, the gooey melted cheese of your favorite pizza, and the savory satisfaction of a baked casserole all in one bubbling dish. This recipe is a weeknight lifesaver that kids adore, adults sneak seconds of, and busy cooks cherish because it comes together with minimal fuss.
Imagine taking everything you love about pizza—zesty tomato sauce, stretchy cheese, pepperoni with just the right amount of spice—and layering it beneath a crispy crown of golden tater tots. The result is nothing short of cozy perfection. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family after soccer practice or hosting a casual game night, this casserole has “crowd-pleaser” written all over it.
Ingredients:
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 package (6 oz) pepperoni slices
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick spray.
- Spread the marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of the casserole dish.
- Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the cheddar cheese over the sauce.
- Layer half of the pepperoni slices over the cheese.
- Evenly arrange the frozen tater tots across the top in a single layer.
- Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from oven, top with the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese, then layer the rest of the pepperoni.
- Bake an additional 5–10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with parsley before serving. Slice and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks:
- For extra flavor, add cooked ground beef or sausage under the tater tot layer.
- Use a mix of mozzarella and provolone for a richer cheese pull.
- Want it spicier? Toss in sliced jalapeños or spicy pepperoni.
Variations:
- Veggie Lover’s Version: Swap pepperoni for sautéed mushrooms, peppers, and onions.
- BBQ Style: Replace marinara with BBQ sauce and top with pulled chicken or pork.
- Breakfast Twist: Use scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheddar under the tots for a brunch casserole.
Pepperoni Pizza Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick spray.
- Spread marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of the casserole dish.
- Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the sauce.
- Layer half of the pepperoni slices over the cheese.
- Evenly arrange frozen tater tots across the top in a single layer.
- Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, until tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from oven, top with remaining mozzarella, cheddar, and pepperoni.
- Bake an additional 5–10 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
Serving Suggestions:
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. It’s hearty enough to be the star of dinner but flexible enough to serve alongside lighter sides.
Storage Information:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the oven for best crispiness, or microwave if you’re short on time.
- Freeze unbaked casserole (without tots) for up to 3 months, then bake with fresh tots.
FAQ:
- Can I make this ahead? Yes! Assemble up to the tater tot layer, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh the next day.
- Can I use different cheeses? Absolutely—mix in Monterey Jack, provolone, or gouda for a unique twist.
- What if I don’t like pepperoni? Try Canadian bacon, chicken, or even vegetarian toppings.
History / Fun Facts:
The concept of the casserole has roots in communal meals, where families layered ingredients to feed large groups affordably. Tater tot casseroles have been a Midwestern staple since the 1950s, while pepperoni pizza is America’s favorite pizza topping. Bringing the two together in this dish is like a delicious love story between comfort food traditions.
