Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef with the diced onion over medium heat until the beef is browned. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the 1000 Island dressing, dill pickles, mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well.
- In a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish, evenly spread the beef mixture across the bottom.
- Top the beef with shredded cheddar cheese, then layer the frozen tater tots over the cheese.
- Bake the casserole in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Before serving, top the casserole with shredded lettuce and sprinkle sesame seeds on top. Enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
To make the most of your BIG MAC TATER TOT CASSEROLE, serve it hot right out of the oven. Pair it with a fresh green salad or crunchy carrot sticks for a well-rounded meal. You can also put together a fun DIY toppings station with options like extra pickles, onions, and even some crispy bacon for those who want to elevate the flavor.
Storage and reheating tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave for individual servings or warm it in the oven. If you want to freeze your casserole, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it can keep for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to let it fully cool before freezing for the best texture.
Helpful cooking tips
- Do not skip draining the fat after browning the beef. It keeps the dish from becoming greasy.
- Feel free to customize spice levels by adding chopped jalapeños or using spicy mustard for an extra kick.
- You can also bake it in smaller dishes for individual servings that are perfect for parties or potlucks!
Creative twists
- Swap proteins: Try ground chicken or a plant-based alternative for a different twist.
- Change the cheese: While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix it up with pepper jack or even mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- Add veggies: Chopped bell peppers or mushrooms can be added to the beef mix for extra nutrition and texture.
Your questions answered
What is the prep time for this casserole?
Prep time is about 15 minutes; the baking time will take an additional 25-30 minutes.
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef mixture and assemble the casserole a day in advance, then bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Is it safe to freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Just ensure they are cooled completely before transferring them to airtight freezer containers for storage.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, you can use plant-based ground meat or lentils in place of beef for a delicious vegetarian version.
