Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole

We’re always down for a bacon cheeseburger, but when we came up with a way to turn this classic into a scrumptious casserole with the addition of tater tots, we were completely hooked! This delightful dish might be a bit of a guilty pleasure, but it makes for a fantastic dinner that the whole family will love. Plus, it’s a breeze to make! The best part? You can customize it with all your favorite toppings. We went with pickles, but feel free to add tomatoes, lettuce, or whatever else you fancy.

It’s an incredibly simple dish to whip up, and the ingredients are easy to keep on hand. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apron and get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole combines the savory goodness of a cheeseburger with the crispy delight of tater tots. It’s a hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Not to mention, it’s a one-dish wonder that saves you time on cleanup!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pan
• Large mixing bowl
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Nonstick spray
• Oven

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 package (3 oz) real bacon bits
• 2 cups cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 package (32 oz) frozen tater tots
• 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cheddar cheese soup
• 2 cups sour cream
• Bread and butter pickles, for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. Set it aside.
2. In a large pan, brown the ground beef over medium heat, then drain any excess grease.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned beef, bacon bits, grated cheddar cheese, tater tots, cheddar cheese soup, and sour cream. Mix until everything is well combined.
4. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake in the preheated oven until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top, about 45-50 minutes.
6. Serve immediately, topped with bread and butter pickles if desired. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Make sure to drain the grease from the beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
• If you like a bit of crunch, consider adding some finely chopped onions or bell peppers to the beef mixture.
• Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to help it set.

Additional Tips and Variations

• For a spicier kick, add some jalapeños or hot sauce to the mixture.
• Swap out the sour cream for Greek yogurt if you prefer a lighter version.
• Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a unique flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Each serving of this casserole is packed with protein and deliciousness, making it a comforting and satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, add an extra 10 minutes to the bake time if baking from cold.

Can I freeze the leftovers? Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Just make sure to wrap it tightly before freezing. To reheat, bake at 350°F until heated through.

Conclusion

We hope you’ll enjoy making and devouring this Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole as much as we do! It’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures that’s sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out. Feel free to share your own variations or topping ideas in the comments below!