Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting dish to impress your family on a cozy evening, the Peppery Smoky Bacon Cheeseburger Skillet Bake is here to deliver. This delightful recipe brings together the classic flavors of a cheeseburger—juicy ground beef, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese—into a one-pan wonder that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. With its melty cheese, crispy tater tots, and hints of smoky paprika, you’ll find it hard to resist serving this dish over and over again.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Imagine gathering around the table for a warm, hearty meal that pleases everyone, from picky eaters to gourmet aficionados. The Peppery Smoky Bacon Cheeseburger Skillet Bake is a fantastic option for busy weeknights or laid-back family gatherings. It’s budget-friendly, requiring only a handful of ingredients while providing a satisfying and filling dish. Plus, its fun skillet presentation makes it feel special without the fuss of multiple dishes.
"This skillet bake is an instant family favorite! It combines everything we love about burgers, but it’s so much easier to make. Definitely adding it to our weeknight rotation!" – A happy home cook
The Cooking Process Explained
Preparing this Bacon Cheeseburger Skillet Bake is straightforward and fun! You’ll start by cooking the bacon until crispy, then use the flavorful grease to brown the ground beef, onions, and garlic together. After seasoning, you’ll mix in some delicious sauces—ketchup and BBQ sauce—before layering it all. The best part? You’ll crown the dish with crispy tater tots and melted cheese before baking it to bubbly perfection. No need for extra dishes; everything cooks in one skillet!
What You’ll Need
Gather these items to whip up this delicious dish:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 cups frozen tater tots
Feel free to substitute ground turkey for the beef or use plant-based cheese for a vegetarian twist!
