Cheesy Meatloaf Tater Tot Casserole (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Meatloaf Base

01 - 800 g ground beef
02 - 120 g breadcrumbs
03 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 2 large eggs
06 - 80 ml ketchup
07 - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
08 - 1 teaspoon salt
09 - 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Topping

10 - 950 g frozen tater tots
11 - 250 g shredded cheddar cheese

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 190°C.
02 - In a large bowl, thoroughly combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper.
03 - Press the meat mixture evenly into a 23x33 cm baking dish.
04 - Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer over the meat mixture, ensuring no overlapping for optimal crispiness.
05 - Bake in the centre of the oven for 45 minutes.
06 - Evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots.
07 - Return to the oven and continue baking for 15 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is golden and bubbling.
08 - Allow the casserole to cool for 10 minutes before serving.

# Notes:

01 - For extra crispy tater tots, ensure they are in a single layer without overcrowding.
02 - If excessive browning occurs, cover the dish loosely with foil.
03 - Substitute ground turkey or use a blend of beef and pork for a lighter or more complex flavor.
04 - Alternative cheeses such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack add variety.
05 - Incorporating diced bell peppers or other vegetables into the meat mixture boosts flavor and nutrition.