Few things scream comfort food like a cheesy, bacon-loaded casserole. This Cheesy Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole combines all the best flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the crispy goodness of tater tots, making it a hearty, family-friendly meal that’s easy to throw together. Perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks, this dish is rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor in every bite. The combination of ground beef, creamy cheddar cheese soup, crispy tater tots, and smoky bacon makes this casserole a must-try for any cheese and burger lover. Best of all, it requires minimal prep time and bakes to golden, bubbly perfection in the oven.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cheddar cheese soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 6 strips cooked bacon, crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart as it browns. Add the diced onion and cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened. Season with salt, pepper, and ranch seasoning.
- Prepare the cheese mixture by combining the cheddar cheese soup with a little water to loosen it up. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the casserole by spreading the cooked beef mixture evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the frozen tater tots in an even layer over the beef.
- Add the cheese topping by pouring the cheddar soup mixture over the tater tots, ensuring even coverage. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is bubbling.
- Finish with bacon by sprinkling crumbled cooked bacon over the top before serving.
- Enjoy! Serve hot and dig into this cheesy, bacon-filled goodness.
Tips for the Best Casserole
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Use fresh ground beef for the best flavor; lean ground beef keeps it from being too greasy.
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For extra creaminess, add ½ cup sour cream or cream cheese to the cheese mixture.
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Want a crispy top? Broil for the last 3-5 minutes to get the tater tots extra crunchy.
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Drain the beef well after cooking to prevent a greasy casserole.
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Mix cheeses for depth of flavor. Cheddar, mozzarella, and even smoked gouda work great.
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Use pre-cooked bacon to save time, or cook fresh bacon for a crispier texture.
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Season the tater tots with garlic powder or smoked paprika before baking.
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Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.
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Make it spicy by adding jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
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For a smoky twist, use smoked cheddar or smoked paprika in the cheese sauce.
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Add pickles after baking to bring in a tangy cheeseburger flavor.
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Use nacho cheese sauce instead of cheddar soup for a bold, creamy taste.
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Make it richer by substituting half-and-half for the water in the cheese mixture.
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Use frozen or fresh tater tots. Homemade tots can add a unique texture.
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Let the beef cool slightly before adding the cheese sauce for better layering.
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Try a different protein like ground turkey or sausage for variety.
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Add veggies like mushrooms, diced tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
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Want a firmer texture? Bake uncovered so the cheese melts without making the tots too soft.
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For an extra crunch, top with crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs.
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Reheat leftovers in the oven instead of the microwave to keep the tater tots crispy.
Delicious Variations to Try
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BBQ Cheeseburger Casserole – Mix in ¼ cup BBQ sauce with the beef for a smoky, sweet twist.
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Spicy Jalapeño Version – Add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture and sprinkle with pepper jack cheese.
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Mushroom Swiss Version – Replace cheddar with Swiss cheese and add sautéed mushrooms.
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Taco-Inspired – Use taco seasoning instead of ranch and add black beans and diced tomatoes.
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Pizza Casserole – Swap beef for pepperoni and use pizza sauce instead of cheddar soup.
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Buffalo Ranch Style – Drizzle buffalo sauce over the top before baking.
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Loaded Baked Potato Version – Add sour cream, chives, and extra bacon on top.
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Breakfast Casserole – Use breakfast sausage instead of beef and add scrambled eggs.
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Philly Cheesesteak Twist – Use shaved steak, provolone, and sautéed bell peppers.
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Bacon Mac and Cheese Tater Tot Bake – Mix in cooked macaroni before baking.
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Chili Cheese Casserole – Stir in a can of chili for a heartier dish.
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Hawaiian Style – Add diced ham and pineapple.
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Double Bacon Version – Use bacon grease to cook the beef for extra flavor.
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French Onion Version – Mix in caramelized onions and top with fried onion strings.
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Bacon Ranch Chicken Version – Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of beef.
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Italian Version – Use Italian sausage and marinara sauce.
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Vegetarian Twist – Swap the beef for plant-based ground meat.
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Three Cheese Explosion – Add gouda, parmesan, and cheddar for a rich, cheesy bite.
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Tater Tot Nacho Casserole – Add taco seasoning and top with salsa.
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Dill Pickle Cheeseburger Casserole – Top with chopped pickles after baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, assemble it without baking, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.
What’s the best way to reheat?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes or until warmed through.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes! Try Monterey Jack, gouda, or even Velveeta.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
What can I serve with this?
A side salad, steamed veggies, or garlic bread pairs well.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, layer everything in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours.
How do I make it low-carb?
Use cauliflower tots instead of tater tots.
Can I add extra protein?
Yes! Try chopped ham, sausage, or shredded chicken.
What if I don’t have cheddar soup?
Use a mixture of milk, butter, and shredded cheddar.
How do I make it extra crispy?
Bake uncovered and broil for 3-5 minutes.
Can I use ground turkey instead?
Yes, just season it well for more flavor.
What’s the best bacon to use?
Thick-cut or smoked bacon adds the best flavor.
Can I use fresh potatoes?
Yes, cube and roast them before using.
What’s the best meat substitute?
Beyond Beef or Impossible Burger works great.
How do I prevent a soggy casserole?
Make sure to drain the beef well before layering.
Can I use a different seasoning?
Yes, try steak seasoning or Cajun spice.
What’s a good garnish?
Chopped parsley, chives, or extra cheese work great.
Can I use leftover burgers?
Yes! Crumble them up and mix with the beef.