Cooking method
Ready to cook? Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s cooked through. Once it’s browned, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion turns translucent.
Next, it’s time to add all those fabulous mix-ins: stir in the crumbled bacon, cheddar, mozzarella, diced tomatoes, ketchup, mustard, pickles, and mayonnaise. Combine everything until well mixed and then spread it evenly in the skillet.
Top it off with the frozen tater tots, arranging them in a single layer over the beef mixture. Now, pop it in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are crispy and golden brown. Finally, serve hot and enjoy this delicious loaded bacon cheeseburger tater tot skillet bake!
How to plate and pair
Serving this skillet bake can be as fun as the dish itself! Scoop generous portions onto plates and garnish with additional diced tomatoes, crispy bacon, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a pop of color. Consider serving it alongside a fresh side salad or a platter of veggie sticks with ranch dip for a well-rounded meal.
For those looking to spice things up, serve with a side of your favorite hot sauce or BBQ sauce for a little extra kick!
Storage and reheating tips
Got leftovers? This dish keeps well! Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. When it’s time to reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or bake it in the oven until heated through. If you plan on saving leftovers for longer, consider freezing the bake. Allow it to cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Always remember to practice safe food handling. Never leave cooked food out at room temperature for more than two hours!
Helpful cooking tips
Here are some tips to ensure your Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Skillet Bake comes out perfect every time:
- Use a cast iron skillet: It retains heat well and gives a nice crispy bottom to the tater tots.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Keep the layers even for uniform cooking.
- Experiment with spices: Adding a dash of paprika or chili powder can elevate the flavors significantly.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations you might want to try:
- Swap out the meats: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Add veggies: Diced bell peppers or mushrooms can bring in additional flavors and nutrients.
- Cheese alternatives: Experiment with gouda or pepper jack for a tasty twist.
Your questions answered
What is the prep time for this recipe?
Typically, you can prepare everything in about 15 minutes, with a total cook time of around 30 minutes.
Can I use fresh tater tots instead of frozen?
While frozen tater tots are convenient, you can use homemade tater tots if you have them on hand. Just ensure they’re cooked through before adding them to the bake.
How do I adjust this recipe for dietary restrictions?
If you need a gluten-free option, make sure to check your condiments and use gluten-free tater tots. For a vegetarian take, you could substitute the ground beef for a plant-based meat alternative and skip the bacon.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! Just make sure it’s cooled completely and stored properly to maintain its texture and flavor.
