Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Your Oven: Set it to 400°F (204°C) so it’s ready for your casserole.
Cook the Beef: In a large sauté pan over medium-high heat, add a dab of margarine or butter to prevent sticking. Brown the ground beef and add the diced onions, crumbling the beef as it cooks until it’s no longer pink.
Drain Excess Grease: Once the beef is cooked, remove it from the heat. Drain off any excess grease to keep the casserole from getting greasy.
Mix It Up: In the same pan (off the heat), combine the cooked beef and onions with bacon bits, mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed.
Layer Your Dish: Transfer the beef mixture to a greased 9 x 13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly. Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheese blend on top.
Add the Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese layer.
Bake It: Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes. This allows the tater tots to cook through and the cheese to melt.
Final Touch: Remove it from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese and 1/4 cup of bacon bits on top. Return it to the oven for another 6-8 minutes until the top is melted and starting to brown.
Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set up nicely for scooping.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serving this decadent casserole can be as simple or as gourmet as you like. Consider garnishing with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with a crisp green salad or add some sliced pickles and tomatoes on the side for a real burger experience. You can even serve it with crispy onion rings for an extra crunch!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, this casserole stores beautifully. Let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it before baking. Just wrap it well and use it within 3 months. When you’re ready to reheat, bake it at 350°F (177°C) until warmed through. Always ensure leftovers are kept at safe temperatures to avoid foodborne illnesses.

Helpful Cooking Tips

Use Lean Meat: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess grease. It’s healthier and helps the casserole set better after baking.
Double It Up: This recipe is perfect for doubling if you’re feeding a crowd or want to make a batch for future meals.
Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day ahead and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This is especially handy for meal prepping.

Creative Twists

Feel free to get creative with your casserole! Try adding jalapeños for a spicy kick or swap in barbecue sauce instead of ketchup for a different taste. For a gourmet touch, consider caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms. You could even turn it vegetarian by using a plant-based ground meat alternative!

Your Questions Answered

Q: How long does it take to prep?
A: Preparation takes about 15-20 minutes, making it a quick meal option.

Q: Can I use other types of cheese?
A: Absolutely! You can mix in your favorites—pepper jack, gouda, or even feta.

Q: Is it safe to freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, as long as you store it properly in an airtight container, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Just remember to let it cool completely before freezing.