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Directions:
1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook 1 pound of ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Season the Beef: Add 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, and 1/2 teaspoon dried basil to the beef. Stir in 1 cup pizza sauce and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Spread the beef mixture evenly in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese over the beef.
5. Add the Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the tater tots, then add 1/4 cup sliced pepperoni and any optional toppings (1/4 cup sliced black olives, 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper, 1/4 cup chopped red onion).
6. Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Serving Information:
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cooking Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 40 minutes
– Calories: 450 per serving
– Servings: 6
