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This bacon cheeseburger tater tot casserole captures everything you love about your favorite burger in one cozy, family friendly dish. The combination of seasoned ground beef, crispy bacon, and golden tater tots creates the ultimate comfort food that satisfies even the pickiest eaters. I created this recipe during a particularly hectic week when my family needed something hearty but simple, and it has since become our go to weeknight dinner.
I stumbled upon this combination during a late night craving for both cheeseburgers and tater tots. Instead of choosing between them, I decided to combine them into one glorious dish. Now my teenagers actually get excited about dinner nights when this is on the menu, which is saying something.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef: Choose 80/20 blend for the best flavor and moisture balance
- 10.5 ounces cheddar cheese soup: This creates the creamy base that binds everything together
- ½ cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and extra richness to the sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Use sharp cheddar for the most pronounced flavor
- 1 cup chopped bacon: Pre cooked bacon saves time, or cook fresh for extra flavor
- ½ yellow onion diced: Sweet onions work beautifully but yellow onions are classic
- 1 teaspoon Montreal Steak Seasoning: This blend adds the perfect burger like seasoning
- 28 ounces frozen Tater Tots: The crispy foundation that makes this dish special
Step by Step Instructions
- Prepare the Tater Tot Base:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer in your baking dish. Bake them for exactly 10 minutes to give them a head start on crisping up. This initial baking prevents soggy bottoms and ensures that perfect golden crunch we all crave.
- Cook the Beef Mixture:
- Heat a large skillet over medium high heat and add the ground beef and diced onions together. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon until no pink remains and the onions are softened and translucent. Drain any excess grease and season generously with Montreal Steak Seasoning, mixing thoroughly to distribute the flavors.
- Create the Creamy Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to medium low and stir in the cheddar cheese soup, sour cream, and chopped bacon. Mix everything together until smooth and creamy, about 2 to 3 minutes. The mixture should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the beef mixture evenly over the pre baked tater tots, using a spatula to spread it into every corner. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top, making sure to cover the entire surface. Return to the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Storage and Reheating
Store leftover casserole covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes, removing the foil for the last 5 minutes to re crisp the tater tots. Individual portions reheat well in the microwave for 60 to 90 seconds, though the tater tots won't be as crispy.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground turkey or chicken can replace the beef for a lighter version, though you may need to add a tablespoon of oil to prevent sticking. Sweet potato tots make an interesting twist and add extra nutrition. For a spicier kick, try pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar, or add a diced jalapeño to the beef mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with ranch or a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition to the plate. For a true diner experience, serve with pickles and a dollop of ketchup on the side.
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Family Friendly Appeal
This dish has become my secret weapon for feeding large groups, from potluck dinners to family gatherings. Kids love the familiar flavors and fun texture combination, while adults appreciate the nostalgic comfort food vibes. It's also incredibly forgiving, so even novice cooks can achieve great results every time.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, sharp cheddar is ideal, but Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend can be used for a milder flavor.
- → Can I prep this ahead of time?
You can assemble the dish ahead and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.
- → What can I substitute for cheddar cheese soup?
A homemade roux with milk and shredded cheese can work if you prefer a less processed option.
- → Are fresh potatoes an option?
You can use diced roasted potatoes, though they won’t be as crispy as tater tots without extra baking time.
- → Does this freeze well?
Yes, it freezes well after baking. Let it cool fully before wrapping tightly and freezing for up to 2 months.