If you’re searching for an appetizer or main that scores instant points with hungry crowds, the Pepperoni Pizza Totchos Recipe should be at the very top of your list! Imagine crispy golden tater tots, mozzarella cheese, classic pizza sauce, and irresistible pepperoni, all bubbling together in one ultimate sheet pan creation. This recipe is that supremely satisfying blend of comfort food and fun, with a pizza-lover’s twist and a tot-lover’s crunch. Whether for game day, a family movie night, or just shaking up your snack routine, prepare to fall head over heels for every cheesy, melty bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The joy of this recipe is in its simplicity—just a handful of well-loved ingredients create a colorful, crave-worthy dish that pops out of the oven ready to impress. Each element builds a flavor-packed base, throws in some gooey cheese, and finishes with the zesty, savory toppings you know and love.
- Frozen tater tots (1 32 oz bag): These golden bites form the crunchy base that sets totchos apart from ordinary pizza or nachos.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 1/2 cups): The ultimate melty, stretchy cheese that brings that authentic pizzeria feeling to every forkful.
- Pizza sauce (1/2 cup): Brings a tangy tomato punch that soaks perfectly into crispy tots—use your favorite store-brand or homemade.
- Italian seasoning (1/2 teaspoon): A fragrant blend of herbs that channels all the classic pizza-shop aromas.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle savory depth that keeps everyone coming back for “just one more” bite.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For a kick of heat—sprinkle lightly if your crowd loves a little spice.
- Pepperoni slices (20–25): The star topping offers bold flavor and those signature crispy edges when baked.
- Sliced black olives (1/4 cup): Bring out salty richness and pop some color into your totchos spread.
- Diced green bell pepper (1/4 cup): Fresh crunch and a vibrant, inviting look every time you dig in.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (2 tablespoons): A final flourish for extra flavor and a little hint of umami on top.
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional): For a bright, herbal finish that elevates both appearance and taste.
How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Totchos Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Tater Tots
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread your frozen tater tots into a single, even layer on a large baking sheet. Pop them in the oven and bake according to the package directions—typically 25–30 minutes—until they’re golden and crisp on the outside. The crunchier the tots, the better the base for your Pepperoni Pizza Totchos Recipe!
Step 2: Add Pizza Sauce
Once your tots are sizzling and toasty, take them out of the oven and reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C). Grab your pizza sauce and gently spoon it evenly across the hot tater tots—it’s okay if some tots peek through. This layer gives the whole dish that saucy, pizza-inspo taste.
Step 3: Layer On The Cheese
Generously scatter shredded mozzarella over the sauced tots. Be sure to reach all the edges for those coveted pockets of gooey melt. This is where your Pepperoni Pizza Totchos Recipe truly starts to take on pizza-worthy status.
Step 4: Season and Top
Sprinkle Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and, if you’re up for it, red pepper flakes over the cheese. Then, layer on your pepperoni, scattered black olives, and diced green bell pepper. Each bite will be a little different, and every one will be loaded with pizza-inspired flavor.
Step 5: Finish Baking
Finish it all with a dusting of grated Parmesan for serious umami boost. Slide the pan back into the oven for another 7–10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden, bubbling, and the pepperoni slices have curled up just right. The aroma alone will have everyone circling the kitchen!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Let your Pepperoni Pizza Totchos Recipe rest for a minute out of the oven, then sprinkle with chopped fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve piping hot and watch them disappear.
How to Serve Pepperoni Pizza Totchos Recipe
Garnishes
For a crowd-pleasing finish, a shower of freshly chopped basil or parsley really brings the dish to life and adds a touch of brightness. If you like things extra cheesy, a final sprinkle of Parmesan never hurts. Sometimes, I set out a side of ranch or warm marinara for dunking—perfect for those who love to dip!
Side Dishes
Balance the richness of the Pepperoni Pizza Totchos Recipe with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, or some simply steamed broccoli. Breadsticks or garlic knots make fun companions if you’re hosting friends, while a refreshing fruit salad keeps things light for family movie nights.
Creative Ways to Present
Totchos are meant to be fun, so why not bring them out in a big cast iron skillet for a rustic, shareable centerpiece? For parties, try serving in individual ramekins or mini skillets so everyone gets their own crispy edges. You can even set up a DIY totchos bar with a selection of pizza toppings for guests to customize their own creations!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare!), transfer any remaining Pepperoni Pizza Totchos Recipe to an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay tasty for up to 3 days—just know the tots will soften slightly, but the flavors only get richer.
Freezing
While fresh is always best, you can freeze totchos if needed. Cool them completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and store for up to one month. For best texture, avoid freezing with fresh herbs—add those after reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your totchos in the oven at 375°F (190°C) on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again. The microwave works in a pinch, but the oven revives that crave-worthy crispness best!
FAQs
Can I make these Pepperoni Pizza Totchos Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Leave off the pepperoni or substitute with your favorite plant-based sausage or veggie pepperoni slices. Load up on mushrooms, onions, or extra peppers to keep this dish hearty and satisfying.
What’s the best way to get the tots extra crispy?
Give the tater tots plenty of space on your baking sheet and bake until the edges are deep golden brown. A convection oven setting, if you have it, boosts crispiness even more. Avoid crowding the pan for max crunch!
Can I double the recipe for a big party?
No problem! Use two sheet pans and rotate them halfway through baking to ensure even crisping. This Pepperoni Pizza Totchos Recipe is a true party-pleaser and scales up easily.
What are some other topping ideas?
Try swapping or adding favorites like cooked sausage, sautéed mushrooms, jalapeños, or even pineapple for a Hawaiian twist. The recipe is your blank pizza canvas—go wild!
Can I assemble ahead and bake later?
You can prep and bake the tater tots in advance, then keep them covered at room temp. When ready to serve, add toppings and bake the final 7–10 minutes so everything is hot and bubbly for guests.
Final Thoughts
The Pepperoni Pizza Totchos Recipe is pure joy in a pan—easy to make, endlessly customizable, and always a crowd favorite. Whether you’re hosting a big group or just shaking up weeknight dinner, give this mashup a try and get ready for smiles all around!
Print
Pepperoni Pizza Totchos Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a fun twist on classic nachos with these Pepperoni Pizza Totchos! Crispy tater tots topped with gooey cheese, zesty pepperoni, and all your favorite pizza toppings.
Ingredients
Tater Tots:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
Cheese:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Pizza Sauce:
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
Seasonings:
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Toppings:
- 20–25 slices pepperoni
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish:
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread tater tots on a baking sheet and bake until crispy.
- Add toppings: Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Top tots with sauce, cheese, seasonings, pepperoni, olives, and bell pepper.
- Bake: Bake until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish: Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Notes
- Customize with your favorite toppings like sausage or mushrooms.
- Serve with extra sauce or ranch for dipping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Appetizer or Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
