Tater Tot Pizza Casserole

INGREDIENTS:

1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots

1 lb ground Italian sausage or beef (or use turkey for a lighter option)

1 (15 oz) jar pizza sauce (or marinara)

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 (3.5 oz) package sliced pepperoni

½ cup diced bell peppers (optional)

½ cup sliced black olives (optional)

1 tsp Italian seasoning

½ tsp garlic powder

Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

DIRECTIONS:

1. Preheat & Prep

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Layer the Tater Tots

Spread frozen tater tots in an even layer in the dish.

Bake for 15 mins to crisp slightly (no need to thaw!).

3. Cook the Meat & Assemble

In a skillet, brown sausage/beef until fully cooked. Drain excess grease.

Stir in pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.

Spread the meat sauce over the partially baked tater tots …