Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole

There’s something magical about combining two of the most beloved comfort foods—cheeseburgers and tater tots—into one irresistible dish. As someone who loves experimenting in the kitchen, I’ve tried countless casserole recipes, but this Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole holds a special place in my heart. It’s hearty, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it the ultimate crowd-pleaser for family dinners, game day gatherings, or even a cozy night in.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. You don’t need to be a professional chef to whip up this dish, and yet it tastes like something you’d order at a diner. The layers of seasoned ground beef, crispy bacon, melty cheese, and golden tater tots create a symphony of textures and flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Trust me, once you try this casserole, it’s going to become a regular in your meal rotation.

What You Need To Make This Recipe

Ground beef: The star of the show, ground beef forms the hearty base of this casserole. Opt for an 80/20 blend for the best flavor and juiciness. You’ll brown it with onions and seasonings to create a savory layer that mimics the taste of a classic cheeseburger.

Bacon: Crispy, smoky bacon adds a layer of richness and texture to the dish. It’s cooked until perfectly crunchy and then crumbled over the casserole, giving every bite a burst of salty, savory goodness.

Onion: Finely chopped onion is sautéed with the ground beef to add sweetness and depth of flavor. It’s a simple ingredient, but it makes a big difference in building that classic cheeseburger taste.

Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese is my go-to for this recipe because it melts beautifully and adds a tangy, creamy element. You’ll use it in two layers—one mixed into the beef and another sprinkled on top for that gooey, cheesy finish.

Cream of mushroom soup: This might seem like an unexpected ingredient, but it adds creaminess and helps bind everything together. It also enhances the umami flavor, making the casserole even more satisfying.

Tater tots: The crowning glory of this dish, tater tots provide a crispy, golden topping that contrasts perfectly with the creamy, cheesy layers beneath. They’re the ultimate comfort food addition.

Seasonings: A simple blend of garlic powder, salt, and pepper is all you need to season the beef. These spices enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients without overpowering them.

Ingredients List

1 pound ground beef
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 package (32 ounces) frozen tater tots

How to Make Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly and the tater tots get perfectly crispy.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a skillet, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. Once done, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then crumble it into small pieces. Set aside.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

In the same skillet, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess grease, then stir in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Add the Soup and Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream of mushroom soup and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is well combined and the cheese is melted.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the beef mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top. Scatter the crumbled bacon over the cheese layer.

Step 6: Add the Tater Tots

Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the top of the casserole. Make sure they’re evenly spaced so they cook uniformly.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

Step 8: Let It Rest

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to slice.

Tips for Making This Recipe

Use high-quality cheese: Sharp cheddar works best, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or a blend for a different flavor profile.
Don’t skip the bacon: It adds a smoky, salty crunch that takes this casserole to the next level.
Customize the toppings: Add diced pickles, sliced tomatoes, or a drizzle of special sauce after baking for a true cheeseburger experience.
Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole up to the tater tot layer, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it the next day for an easy meal.
Adjust the seasonings: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative. Just make sure to season it well to maintain the flavor.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure your tater tots are gluten-free.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the casserole but leave off the tater tots. Add them just before baking. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap.

What can I serve with this casserole?
A simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or coleslaw pairs perfectly with this rich and hearty dish.

This Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole is a guaranteed hit for anyone who loves comfort food. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and always satisfying. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!