Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a crowd-pleasing, cozy comfort food that hits all the right notes, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole Recipe. I absolutely love how it combines juicy ground beef, cheesy goodness, crispy tater tots, and that irresistible bacon crunch—all baked together in one pan. When I first made this dish, my family went crazy for it, and I knew I had to share the magic with you. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to make one of the easiest, most satisfying dinners you’ll come back to again and again!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole Recipe uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients that work beautifully together — from savory ground beef to that dreamy cheese blend. When shopping, look for real bacon bits and good quality shredded cheese for the best flavor and texture.

• Ground beef: Lean beef helps keep the casserole juicy but not greasy.
• Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
• Bacon bits: Real bacon bits deliver smoky flavor without extra prep time.
• Mayo: Adds creaminess and richness to the mixture.
• Ketchup: Gives that classic cheeseburger tang.
• Mustard: Brings a little bite that balances the flavors.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning throughout.
• Onion powder and garlic powder: Boost flavor with a punch of savory goodness.
• Mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend: Melts perfectly and offers a sharp, creamy finish.
• Frozen tater tots: The crispy topper that turns this casserole into a total winner.

Variations

I like to tweak this recipe occasionally depending on what I have on hand or if I’m catering to different tastes. The beauty of this Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole Recipe is how flexible it is—you can make it your own in just a few simple swaps.

• Use turkey or chicken: I’ve swapped out ground beef for ground turkey and still got amazing flavor, perfect for a leaner dish.
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for a little kick that your taste buds will love.
• Go vegetarian: Replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms and lentils, and skip the bacon or use a plant-based alternative.
• Cheese options: Swap the mozzarella and cheddar blend for pepper jack or add some smoked gouda for a smoky twist.

How to Make Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef and Onions

Start by heating a large sauté pan on medium-high heat and add a small dab of butter or margarine to keep things from sticking. Toss in your ground beef along with the diced yellow onion. As it cooks, make sure to crumble the beef well so there are no big chunks. You’re aiming for a nice even cook and those onions to soften up and sweeten as they mingle with the beef. When the meat is fully browned, remove from heat and carefully drain any excess grease – this keeps the casserole from getting greasy.

Step 2: Mix in the Flavor Bombs

Once your beef and onions are ready and drained, stir in the bacon bits, mayo, ketchup, mustard, salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. You’ll see how these classic burger condiments and spices blend into a creamy, flavorful filling that really wakes up the dish. Take a moment to mix everything thoroughly — this is where your cheeseburger flavor magic happens.

Step 3: Layer and Bake

Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread your meat mixture evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle a generous layer of your shredded mozzarella and cheddar blend on top. Next, arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese – this guarantees they bake up crispy and golden.

Pop the casserole in the oven preheated to 400°F and bake it for 35 minutes. After that, pull it out and sprinkle the remaining cheese and bacon bits over the top. Pop the dish back into the oven for 6 to 8 minutes until the cheese is melted and just starting to turn that pretty golden brown. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to let everything set and to avoid burning your mouth—which, trust me, I’ve learned the hard way!

How to Serve Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping this casserole with a handful of freshly chopped green onions or sprinkling some crunchy pickles on the side. Sometimes I’ll dollop a bit of sour cream or ranch dressing on top—it mimics that burger sauce vibe, and it’s a big hit with my kids. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a touch of color too!

Side Dishes

This dish practically stands on its own, but I like pairing it with a crisp green salad or some steamed broccoli to keep things balanced. Sometimes, a simple coleslaw or roasted veggies round out the meal nicely without adding too much fuss.

Creative Ways to Present

For family gatherings, I’ve served this casserole in mini ramekins so everyone gets their own personal portion—that always feels special. It also looks great spooned into small cast iron skillets for a rustic touch. Adding a drizzle of your favorite burger sauce or some diced fresh tomatoes right before serving can really elevate the presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After the casserole has cooled, I store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge. It keeps well for about 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or next-day dinners.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this casserole a few times by assembling everything (except the topping cheese and bacon), covering it tightly with foil, and freezing. When ready, I bake it straight from frozen, adding the topping halfway through baking. It’s a great time saver!

Reheating

To reheat, I pop leftovers into a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through—this keeps the tater tots crispy, unlike the microwave which can make them soggy. If you’re in a rush, a quick zap in the microwave covered with a paper towel works, but I definitely prefer the oven method for texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Bacon Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a big warm hug after a long day. I love how it’s simple to make yet bursting with flavor, bringing together favorites like bacon, cheese, and crispy potatoes in one hearty meal. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both crowd-pleasing and totally satisfying, you’ve got to give this a try. Trust me, once you make it, it’ll become a staple in your dinner rotation—just like it did in mine!

Print