Introduction
If you love cheeseburgers and crave comfort food, this recipe is about to become your new favorite. Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole is a cozy, hearty dish that takes the best parts of a classic cheeseburger and transforms them into a one-pan meal that is both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. The combination of juicy ground beef, creamy cheese, and crispy golden tater tots creates a flavor that feels like a big warm hug on a plate.
What makes this casserole even better is how family-friendly and versatile it is. It is perfect for picky eaters, makes great leftovers, and is simple enough to prepare on a busy weeknight. There is no need to fuss over the grill or worry about side dishes because everything you need is layered in one dish. Whether you are cooking for a crowd or just want a comforting dinner after a long day, this casserole is a no-fail option that delivers every single time.
Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole also brings back a little nostalgia. It has that homemade feel that reminds you of the meals your mom used to make, but with a cheeseburger twist that makes it extra exciting. It is comfort food at its best, made with everyday ingredients that you probably already have at home. So grab your favorite casserole dish and let’s dive into this cheesy, crispy, savory creation that is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
Ingredients Needed
This recipe keeps things simple and straightforward. You won’t need anything fancy to make this casserole delicious. The ingredients are easy to find and even easier to put together. Here is a complete list of what you will need to get started.
Ingredients Table with Calorie Count
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef (85 percent lean) | 1 pound | 680 kcal |
| Onion, diced | 1 medium | 45 kcal |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves | 10 kcal |
| Cheddar cheese, shredded | 2 cups | 800 kcal |
| Cream of mushroom soup | 1 can (10.5 ounces) | 250 kcal |
| Ketchup | 1/4 cup | 60 kcal |
| Mustard | 1 tablespoon | 10 kcal |
| Pickles, chopped (optional) | 1/4 cup | 5 kcal |
| Frozen tater tots | 1 bag (32 ounces) | 1200 kcal |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | 0 kcal |
| Cooking spray or butter | For greasing | 50 kcal |
Total estimated calories for the full dish: 3110 kcal
Calories per serving (8 servings): About 390 kcal
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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This helps everything bake evenly and gives the tater tots that perfect crispy texture. While the oven heats up, grab a large skillet and set it over medium heat.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook it until it is browned. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Make sure to break the beef into crumbles as it cooks. Once it is fully browned, drain any excess grease from the pan to avoid a greasy casserole.
Now it is time to add flavor. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic and stir everything together. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant. At this point, your kitchen will already start to smell amazing.
Next, stir in the cream of mushroom soup, ketchup, and mustard. These ingredients give the casserole its classic cheeseburger taste with a creamy texture that brings it all together. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste and mix until everything is combined.
Take your greased casserole dish and spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef. Now arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top. You do not need to thaw them first. Just place them straight from the freezer.
Pop the dish into the oven and bake uncovered for about 35 to 40 minutes. The tater tots should be golden brown and crispy. Once they look done, pull the dish out and sprinkle the remaining cup of cheese over the top. Return it to the oven for another 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows everything to set so it is easier to scoop out clean portions.
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Tips for Customizing the Recipe
This casserole is very forgiving and easy to customize based on what you like or what you have in the fridge. If you want to add a spicy kick, throw in some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce. If you prefer something milder but still flavorful, try mixing in a spoonful of barbecue sauce.
For extra nutrition, mix in chopped veggies like bell peppers, peas, or corn with the beef mixture. This not only boosts the flavor but also makes the meal more balanced.
You can also switch up the cheese. While cheddar is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack if you like a little heat.
If you want a lower carb version, you can substitute the tater tots with cauliflower florets or zucchini slices. Just be sure to roast them a little first so they stay firm during baking.
Nutritional Information
This casserole is rich and filling, which makes it satisfying even in small portions. Here is a quick look at the approximate nutrition per serving, assuming 8 servings total:
Calories: 390 kcal
Protein: 20 grams
Carbohydrates: 28 grams
Fat: 23 grams
Saturated fat: 10 grams
Cholesterol: 65 milligrams
Fiber: 2 grams
Sodium: 620 milligrams
Sugar: 4 grams
These numbers can vary depending on ingredient brands and substitutions, but it gives a solid idea of the nutritional profile.
Serving Suggestions
Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole is a meal on its own, but you can pair it with a few simple sides to round things out. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a nice crunch and helps balance the richness. You can also serve it with steamed green beans, roasted vegetables, or a scoop of coleslaw for something tangy.
If you are serving it at a gathering or potluck, offer ketchup, mustard, or ranch dressing on the side for dipping. You can also top each serving with a few chopped pickles or a drizzle of special sauce to really drive home that cheeseburger flavor.
For drinks, keep it casual. Iced tea, soda, or a light beer all pair well with this comfort food classic.
Read More: Quick and Delicious Easy Hamburger Hash Recipe
Conclusion
Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleasing comfort dish. It combines simple ingredients into a rich, cheesy, and crispy meal that is as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you are feeding your family, prepping meals ahead of time, or just craving something warm and satisfying, this casserole checks all the boxes.
It is versatile, affordable, and endlessly customizable. Plus, with only one dish to wash at the end, cleanup is a breeze. Try it once and it is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Comfort food has never been this easy or this delicious.