Why is it such a hit, you ask? Well, for starters, it’s super easy to make, and everything you put into it are ingredients that most people already have at home. Plus, the smell of it baking fills the entire house with an irresistible aroma that’s just so comforting. My kids even race to the table whenever they know I’ve whipped up this casserole. It’s like having a cheeseburger in a pan but with a crispy, golden tater tot crust that makes it even better.
Now, I know how hectic life can get. Between taking care of the family and trying to juggle work, it’s tough to find the time to prepare a fulfilling dinner. That’s what I love about this casserole! You can make it ahead of time, so when those busy nights roll around, you’ve got a delicious, ready-to-bake meal waiting in the fridge or freezer. It’s perfect for those nights when you just want something easy and satisfying.
This isn’t just any casserole. Each bite is a delightful mix of savory ground beef, crispy bacon, gooey cheddar cheese, and creamy sour cream—all topped with those crispy tater tots that remind us of fun family dinners. What I enjoy the most is how this casserole brings everyone together. Gathering around the table to enjoy a meal that everyone loves is a wonderful feeling.
Whether you’re planning a cozy family night or hosting a casual get-together with friends, this Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole fits the bill. Everyone will be asking for seconds, and maybe even thirds! So, let’s dive into this simple and scrumptious recipe you’ll definitely want to add to your rotation.
How to Make Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole
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Ingredients
- 1½ pounds ground beef
- ¾ cup crispy bacon, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (32-oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 1 (10.5-oz) can creamy cheddar cheese soup
- 1 (16-oz) container sour cream
Directions
- First, heat your oven to 350°F. Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside for later use.
- Next, place a large skillet on medium-high heat and cook the ground beef until it’s fully browned, making sure to drain any excess fat.
- In a big bowl, mix together the browned beef, chopped bacon, cheddar cheese, tater tots, cheddar cheese soup, and sour cream until everything is well combined.
- Carefully transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly for uniform cooking.
- Bake the casserole in the oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and turns a nice golden brown.
Storing Suggestion
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To extend its shelf life, you can also freeze portions for up to two months. Simply reheat in the oven until heated through when ready to enjoy again.
Cooking Tips
Boost the flavor of this dish by browning the beef with a pinch of garlic powder and onion. You could also swap out cheddar for your favorite cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for an added kick. Remember to mix gently to avoid breaking the tater tots.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a side salad for a balanced meal. For an extra cheesy twist, sprinkle additional cheddar cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking. Consider pairing with a light beer or iced tea to refresh your palate.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer. For a vegetarian option, use plant-based meat crumbles and omit the bacon. Instead of sour cream, Greek yogurt can be used to make it a bit lighter without sacrificing taste.
Seasonal Variations
Change things up with seasonal vegetables like diced bell peppers, onions, or corn mixed in with the tater tots. In the summer, add some fresh tomatoes before baking to bring a burst of freshness to the dish.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy and gluten. Substitute dairy with plant-based cheese and yogurt to make it dairy-free, and ensure tater tots and cheddar cheese soup are gluten-free varieties if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Simply cover it with foil and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious when baked fresh the next day.
How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too greasy?
Be sure to drain excess fat from the cooked ground beef before combining it with the other ingredients. Additionally, consider using ground beef with a lower fat content, or swapping with ground turkey or chicken for a less greasy alternative.
What can I do if I don’t have cheddar cheese?
If cheddar cheese isn’t available, you can experiment with other cheeses. Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Colby cheese all work well in this recipe. Each gives a slightly different flavor profile, so feel free to experiment to find your favorite combination.
How do I reheat leftovers for the best taste?
Reheat individual servings in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil to retain moisture while heating. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power to avoid drying them out.
Is this recipe suitable for a potluck?
Absolutely! This casserole is a fantastic option for potlucks and gatherings. It’s easy to make, travels well, and is always a crowd-pleaser. For convenience, bake it in a disposable aluminum foil tray for easy transport and cleanup.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, simply replace the cheddar cheese and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives. Many grocery stores carry vegan cheeses and plant-based yogurt that can substitute seamlessly without changing the overall taste and texture of the casserole.
Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds ground beef
- ¾ cup crispy bacon chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 32-oz bag frozen tater tots
- 1 10.5-oz can creamy cheddar cheese soup
- 1 16-oz container sour cream
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking oil and set it aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink, then drain off any excess fat.
- In a big mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, chopped bacon, cheddar cheese, tater tots, cheddar cheese soup, and sour cream. Stir everything together until it's well mixed.
- Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Bake in the oven for about 45 to 50 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden on top.
