1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). (5 minutes)
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Drain off any excess grease. (8-10 minutes)
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. (5 minutes)
4. Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld. (10 minutes)
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread the condensed cream of mushroom soup evenly across the bottom. (2 minutes)
6. Pour the Sloppy Joe mixture over the cream of mushroom soup. (1 minute)
7. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the Sloppy Joe mixture. (1 minute)
8. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese. (5 minutes)
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy and the casserole is bubbly. (20-25 minutes)
10. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with the remaining cheddar cheese. Let stand for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt. (2 minutes)
11. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired, and serve immediately. (1 minute)
Pro tip
For an extra layer of flavor, toast the tater tots in the oven for 5 minutes before assembling the casserole.
Prep Time | 20 minutes
Cooking Time | 52-62 minutes
Total Time | 72-82 minutes
Calories | Approximately 450 per serving
Servings | 8-10
