Ingredients
Scale
For the Beef Layer:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For Garnishing (Optional):
- Chopped green onions
- Diced pickles
- Drizzle of burger sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef Mixture
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Drain excess grease and return the beef to the skillet.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and mustard.
- Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine. Remove from heat.
Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly in the dish.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef.
- Evenly distribute the cooked and crumbled bacon on top.
- Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese and bacon.
Step 3: Bake the Casserole
- Sprinkle smoked paprika and garlic powder over the tater tots.
- Bake uncovered for 30 minutes.
Step 4: Add More Cheese
- Remove from oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
- Return to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped green onions, pickles, or a drizzle of burger sauce.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: Americans
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
- Sodium: 780mg
- Protein: 22g
Keywords: Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole