If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing, easy-to-make dinner that combines all your favorite flavors—cheeseburgers, bacon, and tater tots—this Cheesy Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole is the answer! Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or game day gatherings, this recipe is a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. Plus, it’s loaded with gooey cheese, crispy bacon, and golden tater tots for the ultimate comfort food experience. Let’s dive in!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this casserole is a lifesaver on busy days.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the classic cheeseburger flavors.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or swap ingredients to make it your own.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prep.
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Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef (use lean beef for a healthier option)
- 1/2 cup diced onion (adds a sweet, savory flavor)
- 1/2 cup ketchup (for that classic cheeseburger taste)
- 1 tbsp mustard (Dijon or yellow mustard works great)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or use a mix of cheeses for extra flavor)
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (because everything’s better with bacon!)
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots (the star of the show!)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (adds creaminess to the beef mixture)
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Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly.
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess grease.
- Add Flavor: Stir in the ketchup, mustard, and sour cream until well combined. This creates a rich, tangy base for your casserole.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread the beef mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon on top.
- Add the Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the beef and cheese mixture. For extra crispiness, spray the tots lightly with cooking spray.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes, then serve warm. Pair it with a fresh salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
Tips for Customization
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- Spice It Up: Add a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
- Swap the Protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
- Add Veggies: Mix in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack, mozzarella, or gouda.
