Easy Pizza Tot Casserole (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Base Layer

01 - 1 pound of ground beef (or spicy Italian sausage if you're feeling adventurous)
02 - 1 small onion, chopped up
03 - 2 cups of your favorite marinara or pizza sauce
04 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend
05 - A good pinch of salt and pepper to taste

→ Topping Layer

06 - 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese (mix in some cheddar if you like)
07 - One 32-ounce bag of frozen tater tots

→ Optional Pizza Toppings

08 - 1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices
09 - 1/2 cup sliced black olives
10 - 1/2 bell pepper, diced into small pieces
11 - 1/4 cup sliced green onions for garnish
12 - 1/4 cup fresh sliced mushrooms

# Instructions:

01 - Turn that oven up to 400°F and grab your 9×13-inch baking dish. Give it a quick grease so nothing sticks.
02 - Grab your skillet, toss in the ground beef and onions, and cook everything over medium heat until the beef is nicely browned and the onions are soft - about 5-7 minutes. Don't forget to drain off the extra grease!
03 - Pour in your marinara sauce, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, and add a pinch of salt and pepper. Let everything bubble together for a couple minutes to blend those flavors.
04 - Spread your meat sauce evenly in the baking dish, then sprinkle half of your cheese right on top.
05 - Line up those tater tots in a single layer over everything - this is going to be your crispy top! Sprinkle the rest of your cheese all over those tots.
06 - Pop it in the oven for about 25-30 minutes. You want those tots golden and crispy, and that cheese all melty and bubbly.
07 - If you're using any extra toppings, sprinkle them on now and give it another 5 minutes in the oven to heat through.

# Notes:

01 - Great for using up leftover marinara sauce or pizza toppings
02 - Can be prepped ahead and baked just before serving
03 - Perfect for feeding a hungry crowd