ADVERTISEMENT
How to Make Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Bacon and Ground Beef
Start by cooking the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat. Once crispy, remove it from the pan and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. In the same skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the beef and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook for another minute to combine the flavors.
Step 2: Make the Casserole Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix together the cheddar cheese soup, ketchup, and mustard until smooth. Add this mixture to the beef and onion in the skillet, stirring until everything is well combined. Stir in 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese and the crispy bacon. Continue to stir until the cheese is melted and everything is evenly coated.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the beef and cheese mixture into the prepared dish and spread it into an even layer. Top with a single layer of frozen tater tots, arranging them in a neat, even layer on top of the beef mixture.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy. Once done, remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Return the casserole to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with pickles and shredded lettuce on the side for that true cheeseburger experience.
Tips for the Perfect Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole
- Use Crispy Bacon: The crispy bacon adds a crunchy texture and smoky flavor, so be sure to cook it until it’s nice and crispy before adding it to the casserole.
- Customize the Toppings: If you love cheeseburgers with more toppings, feel free to add things like sautéed mushrooms, jalapeños, or even some diced tomatoes to the casserole.
- Make It Spicy: For a little extra kick, add some hot sauce or jalapeño slices to the beef mixture or as a garnish on top.
- Leftovers: This casserole makes great leftovers! Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Conclusion
Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole is a game-changer when it comes to easy, comforting meals. It’s packed with all the delicious flavors of a bacon cheeseburger, but with the added bonus of crispy, golden tater tots on top. This one-dish wonder is sure to please your entire family, from the first bite to the last. Perfect for busy nights, weekends, or any time you want a satisfying and delicious meal, this casserole is bound to become a new favorite. Enjoy! 🍔🥓🧀
ADVERTISEMENT
