Sloppy Joe Casserole Tots (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 8 oz lean ground beef
02 - ½ medium onion, chopped
03 - ½ red bell pepper, chopped
04 - ¼ cup tomato sauce
05 - ½ tablespoon packed brown sugar
06 - ½ tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
07 - ½ tablespoon Dijon mustard
08 - ¼ teaspoon salt
09 - 8 oz frozen tater tots or frozen hash browns
10 - 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
11 - ⅛ cup chopped dill pickles (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 7x5-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
02 - Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the ground beef for 7 to 9 minutes, stirring frequently until browned. Drain any excess fat.
03 - Add onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring. Then stir in tomato sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and salt. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture boils.
04 - Layer half of the frozen potatoes evenly at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour the beef mixture over the potatoes, then sprinkle ½ cup of shredded Cheddar cheese. Layer the remaining potatoes and top with the rest of the Cheddar cheese.
05 - Bake the dish for 30 minutes, or until bubbly and the potatoes are lightly browned.
06 - Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle chopped dill pickles on top if desired. Serve hot.

# Notes:

01 - Brown the ground beef before assembly to enhance the flavor profile of the casserole.
02 - Experiment with additional seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or chili flakes for variety.
03 - Cover the dish with foil during baking to retain moisture and ensure a juicy dish.