Why Make This Recipe

Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole is a fun and hearty dish that everyone loves! It’s a great way to combine the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the crispy texture of tater tots. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game day gatherings. It’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

How to Make Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 2 cups frozen tater tots
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, cook the ground beef and onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess fat.
3. Stir in the crumbled bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. In a large bowl, combine the beef mixture with milk.
5. Spread the mixture in a greased baking dish.
6. Top with frozen tater tots and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
8. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole

You can serve Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole straight from the dish. It pairs well with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables. For extra flavor, feel free to add your favorite burger toppings like ketchup, mustard, or pickles.

How to Store Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It’s best eaten within 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Tips to Make Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole

• Use lean ground beef to reduce grease.
• Feel free to mix in other ingredients like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor.
• If you want a bit of spice, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.

Variation

You can easily make this dish vegetarian by swapping the ground beef for meat substitutes and leaving out the bacon. Just make sure to check that the tater tots and cheese are meat-free as well.

FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
While tater tots are the base of this recipe, you can use diced fresh potatoes. Just be sure to cook them until tender before adding them to the casserole.

Can I make the casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.

What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?
You can use any cheese you like! Mozzarella or pepper jack can add a different flavor and texture.