Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole
Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s no longer pink.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook until the onion is soft and fragrant.
- Stir in the ketchup, mustard, and pickles, ensuring everything is well-combined.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom of a prepared casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon on top of the beef mixture.
- Layer the frozen tater tots on top, covering the cheese completely.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until the tater tots are crispy and the cheese has melted beautifully.
- Serve hot and enjoy this delicious Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole!
Best ways to enjoy it
When serving Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole, the options are endless! Pair it with a side salad for a refreshing contrast or serve it alongside classic burger sides like coleslaw or potato chips. You can even set up a toppings bar with additional pickles or chopped green onions for guests to customize their servings.
How to store & freeze
To keep your casserole fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you plan to freeze it, make sure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. When reheating, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to guarantee safety.
Pro chef tips
- For extra flavor, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef while cooking.
- Use high-quality bacon—thick-cut bacon can elevate the dish’s overall flavor.
- Don’t skip the pickles; they add a tangy crunch that balances the richness.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Consider these variations:
- Spicy kick? Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- Cheese lover? Mix in pepper jack cheese for extra flavor or try a blend of different cheeses.
- Vegetarian option: Swap the beef for Black Bean or Chickpea patties and omit the bacon.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare?
The entire cooking process takes approximately 1 hour, including prep and baking time.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen tater tots?
Absolutely! Just thinly slice or dice fresh potatoes, season them, and bake them until crispy before layering them on top.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep planning!
With this Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole recipe, you can bring joy and comfort to the table effortlessly. It’s not just food; it’s a delightful experience that your family will cherish!
Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until it's no longer pink.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook until the onion is soft and fragrant.
- Stir in the ketchup, mustard, and pickles, ensuring everything is well-combined.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom of a prepared casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon on top of the beef mixture.
- Layer the frozen tater tots on top, covering the cheese completely.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until the tater tots are crispy and the cheese has melted beautifully.
- Serve hot and enjoy this delicious Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole!
