Name: Cheeseburger Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb. ground beef.; 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce.; 10.5 oz. cheddar cheese condensed soup.; 8 oz. sour cream.; ¾ cup bacon, cooked and chopped.; ½ cup milk.; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese.; 32 oz. frozen tater tots (keep frozen).; 1 tsp. garlic powder.; 1 tsp. salt.; ½ tsp. black pepper.

Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole is the epitome of comfort food, blending the savory taste of ground beef, the creamy richness of cheddar cheese, and the satisfying crunch of tater tots. This dish is as easy to prepare as it is delicious, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or when you need a hearty meal that everyone will love. The combination of Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and bacon adds depth and flavor to the beef, while the cheddar cheese condensed soup and sour cream create a creamy base that ties everything together. Topped with plenty of shredded cheddar cheese and baked to bubbly perfection, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or a casual dinner, it’s sure to be a hit. For added flavor, consider adding chopped onions to the beef or experimenting with different cheeses.

Looking for the ultimate comfort food? This Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole combines all the best flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the crispy goodness of tater tots. Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this dish a family favorite.

INGREDIENTS

Ground Beef (1 lb.): The base of the casserole, providing a rich, savory flavor.
Worcestershire Sauce (2 tbsp): Adds a tangy depth to the beef, enhancing the overall flavor.
Cheddar Cheese Condensed Soup (10.5 oz.): Creates a creamy, cheesy layer that brings everything together.
Sour Cream (8 oz.): Adds creaminess and a slight tang, balancing the richness of the cheese.
Bacon (¾ cup, cooked and chopped): Provides a smoky, salty crunch that elevates the dish.
Milk (½ cup): Helps to thin the cheese mixture, making it easier to mix and spread.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese (2 cups): Melts into the casserole, giving it a gooey, cheesy finish.
Frozen Tater Tots (32 oz.): The star of the show, adding a crispy texture to every bite.
Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Enhances the flavor of the beef with a subtle garlic taste.
Salt (1 tsp): Seasons the beef, bringing out its natural flavors.
Black Pepper (½ tsp): Adds a hint of spiciness, balancing the richness of the dish.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13-inch baking pan by greasing it with nonstick cooking spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Step 2:: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the uncooked ground beef. Stir frequently as the beef cooks, breaking it into small crumbles. Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and no pink remains. Once cooked, carefully drain any excess grease from the skillet to avoid a greasy casserole.
Step 3:: With the beef still in the skillet, season it with Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to evenly distribute the seasonings throughout the beef, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4:: Add the cheddar cheese condensed soup, sour cream, cooked and chopped bacon, and milk to the seasoned beef in the skillet. Mix thoroughly to ensure every piece of beef is coated with the creamy mixture.
Step 5:: Pour the beef mixture into the prepared 9x13-inch baking pan, spreading it out evenly. This will create a solid base for the tater tots and cheese.
Step 6:: Take the frozen tater tots and shredded cheddar cheese and add them to the pan. Use a spatula to mix the tots and cheese into the beef mixture, ensuring that everything is evenly coated and distributed.
Step 7:: Once everything is mixed and spread out evenly, place the baking pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges of the casserole are bubbling and the tater tots are golden brown and crispy. This baking time allows the flavors to meld together while creating a deliciously crisp top layer.
Step 8:: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This brief resting period helps the casserole set, making it easier to cut and serve.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve this Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole hot, right out of the oven, for the best texture and flavor.
Pair it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness of the casserole.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.

Helpful Notes

For a spicy kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños to the beef mixture or topping the casserole with sliced pickled jalapeños before baking.
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this casserole without sacrificing flavor.
If you prefer a creamier texture, mix in a little extra milk or sour cream to the beef mixture before baking.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Chef Gordon Ramsay: "Always season your beef well before adding it to the casserole. It’s the key to making sure every bite is full of flavor."
Chef Alton Brown: "Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses in this dish. A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack can give a more complex flavor."
Chef Jamie Oliver: "For an added touch, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley over the casserole just before serving for a burst of color and freshness."