Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole
Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole is a fun and comforting meal that's packed with all the flavors you love in a cheeseburger but in a cozy, easy-to-eat casserole form. Think juicy…
Tip: save now, cook later.Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole is a fun and comforting meal that’s packed with all the flavors you love in a cheeseburger but in a cozy, easy-to-eat casserole form. Think juicy ground beef, melty cheddar cheese, crispy tater tots, and a little bit of tangy ketchup and mustard mixed right in. It’s like all your favorite diner bites rolled into one warm dish.
I love making this casserole because it feels like a little celebration anytime it’s on the table. It’s one of those recipes that’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without a lot of fuss. I usually sprinkle a bit of extra cheese on top before baking so it gets that golden, bubbly crust that everyone fights over.
This dish is always a hit with family and friends, especially the kids – they always ask for seconds! I like to serve it with a simple side salad or steamed veggies to keep things balanced. Plus, leftovers taste just as good the next day, making it a great choice for lunch or dinner. Whenever I’m craving comfort food with a fun twist, this casserole is my go-to.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the base of your cheeseburger flavor. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. For vegetarians, try plant-based crumbles—they work well here.
Onions & Garlic: They add depth to the meat sauce. If you’re short on time, onion powder and garlic powder can be quick substitutes.
Tomato Sauce or Ketchup: Ketchup brings sweetness and tang like a cheeseburger. If you want less sugar, use plain tomato sauce with a touch of vinegar or mustard.
Worcestershire Sauce: Adds that umami kick reminiscent of a burger joint. If unavailable, soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar works as a replacement.
Tater Tots: The crispy topping is key! If you can’t find tater tots, try frozen hash browns or homemade oven-roasted potato cubes.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is classic here. Feel free to mix in mozzarella for extra meltiness or use a dairy-free cheese if needed.
How Do I Get Crispy Tater Tots and a Melty Cheese Topping?
The secret is to bake everything uncovered and at the right temperature so the tots get crispy and the cheese melts perfectly:
- Preheat your oven well to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread the tater tots in a single layer on top of the beef mixture—crowding them can cause sogginess.
- Sprinkle cheese evenly over the tots for a good melt all across the casserole.
- Bake uncovered so steam escapes; this helps keep the tots crunchy.
- Keep an eye on the casserole towards the end. If the cheese isn’t browning enough, you can broil for 1-2 minutes but watch closely to avoid burning.
When you take it out, let it sit a few minutes to let everything set. This makes serving easier and keeps the layers intact. Following these steps ensures your casserole is crispy on top and gooey beneath, just like a perfect cheeseburger!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for browning the ground beef and cooking onions evenly.
- 9×13-inch baking dish – roomy enough to layer your casserole ingredients without overflow.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – to break up the beef and stir the sauce smoothly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the seasoning and sauce just right.
- Oven mitts – for safe handling of the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option that still tastes great.
- Mix in cooked diced bell peppers or mushrooms to add a boost of veggies and texture.
- Use pepper jack or mozzarella cheese for a different cheese twist with a mild or spicy kick.
- Add a few dashes of hot sauce or smoked paprika into the beef mix for extra flavor and warmth.
How to Make Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce or ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Optional Garnishes:
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Time You’ll Need:
This casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 25-30 minutes to bake, for a total time of approximately 35-40 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven and Cook Ground Beef Mixture:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any extra fat from the pan.
2. Add Sauce and Seasonings:
Stir in the tomato sauce or ketchup, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, so all the flavors blend nicely.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly across the bottom. Place the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the beef. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the tater tots.
4. Bake and Serve:
Bake the casserole uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you like, add diced tomatoes and chopped green onions as a fresh garnish. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Casserole?
It’s best to thaw frozen ground beef completely before cooking to ensure even browning. You can thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Avoid cooking frozen beef directly as it may not cook evenly.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to step 3, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, bake straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time until the tater tots are crispy and cheese is melted.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. To keep the tater tots crispy, reheating in the oven is preferred.
What Can I Serve with Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance its richness. Pickles or a side of coleslaw can also add a nice tangy contrast similar to classic cheeseburger sides.