Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot

This Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole combines all your favorite flavors in one comforting dish that is perfect for a hearty family meal. The blend of savory ground beef, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and golden tater tots creates a satisfying mix that is sure to become a regular request at your table.

I discovered this recipe on a busy weeknight when I needed something quick but comforting. Since then, it’s become a favorite for family dinners and potlucks because it hits that perfect balance between cheesy, meaty, and crispy.

Ingredients

• Two pounds of lean ground beef: brings protein without excess fat and forms the savory base
• One cup of diced yellow onion: gives a mild sweetness and texture, pick firm onions free from soft spots
• One cup of real bacon bits: adds smoky, salty flavor throughout—opt for quality bits for better crispness
• Half a cup of mayo: helps bind ingredients and adds creamy richness—full-fat works best here
• One cup of ketchup: lends tangy sweetness to balance savory notes, choose your favorite brand for personalized taste
• A quarter cup of mustard: adds zest and complexity—Dijon or yellow mustard both work well
• One teaspoon each of salt and pepper: for basic seasoning to enhance all flavors
• One tablespoon each of onion powder and garlic powder: adds depth and rounds out the seasoning
• Two cups of shredded mozzarella and cheddar blend: bring melty, stretchy cheese throughout the casserole
• Twenty-four ounces of frozen tater tots: create a crispy, golden topping layer, use thicker tots for extra texture
• One cup of shredded cheese and a quarter cup of bacon bits: for finishing toppings to add extra cheesiness and crunch

Instructions

Preheat Oven:

Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it reaches the right temperature by the time your casserole is ready for baking.

Cook Ground Beef and Onions:

Place the lean ground beef in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of butter or margarine to keep the meat from sticking and to boost flavor. Toss in the diced yellow onions and stir occasionally to cook everything evenly. Break up the meat with your spatula until it is browned through and the onions become translucent, which helps build a rich flavor base.

Drain Excess Grease:

Carefully remove the pan from heat and tilt slightly to pour away any excess grease. This step keeps the casserole from becoming too oily while maintaining moisture.

Add Seasonings and Sauces:

Return the pan to a low heat setting and stir in the bacon bits, mayo, ketchup, mustard, salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix everything thoroughly so the flavors meld into a cohesive, flavorful filling.

Assemble in Baking Dish:

Grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish. Transfer the meat mixture evenly into the dish, spreading it to create a smooth base layer for the casserole.

Add Cheese Layer:

Sprinkle two cups of shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the meat mixture. This layer adds gooey, creamy texture when baked.

Top with Tater Tots:

Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese. Be sure to cover the surface evenly to achieve a uniformly crispy crust once baked.

Bake Initial Layer:

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven for 35 minutes. During this time, the tater tots cook through and the cheese underneath melts and bubbles.

Add Final Toppings:

Remove the casserole carefully from the oven. Sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheese and quarter cup of bacon bits over the tater tots for extra flavor and texture.

Bake Until Golden:

Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional six to eight minutes. Watch closely so the top cheese melts completely and starts to brown lightly, signaling it is done.

Rest and Serve:

Take the casserole out of the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes. This short wait helps the layers set, making it easier to scoop out neat servings. Enjoy the combination of crispy tots, melty cheese, and savory meat in every bite.

I love the bacon bits for that smoky crunch they bring to every layer—this dish has become a way we bond over comfort food, especially on chilly weekends when everyone gathers in the kitchen.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat covered in the oven or microwave to keep the cheese from drying out. This casserole also freezes nicely in an airtight container for up to two months—just thaw overnight before reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter version though the flavor will be milder. You can swap in vegan bacon bits and dairy-free cheese to make this casserole plant-based. Dijon mustard works beautifully if you prefer a tangier bite over yellow mustard.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this casserole alongside a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness. Adding a dollop of sour cream or a splash of hot sauce can also enhance the flavors for easy customization at the table.

This casserole combines ease and flavor in a way that keeps everyone coming back for more. Perfect it with fresh sides to round out your meal.

FAQs about Recipes

→ What type of ground beef is best to use?

Lean ground beef works best to reduce excess grease while maintaining rich flavor.

→ Can I substitute fresh potatoes for tater tots?

Yes, cubed and roasted potatoes can be used but will change the texture, losing the classic crispy topping.

→ How can I prevent the casserole from becoming greasy?

Drain any excess grease from the cooked beef before mixing with other ingredients to keep the dish balanced.

→ What cheeses are recommended for this dish?

A blend of mozzarella and cheddar provides a creamy texture and sharp flavor that complements the meat and bacon.

→ What temperature should the oven be set to cook this dish?

Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) for optimal baking to melt cheese and crisp the tater tots.