Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole
Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole is a fun, hearty dish that brings together all your favorite burger flavors in one easy-to-make pan. Crispy tater tots layer on top of seasoned ground…
Tip: save now, cook later.Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole is a fun, hearty dish that brings together all your favorite burger flavors in one easy-to-make pan. Crispy tater tots layer on top of seasoned ground beef and melty cheese, creating a crispy, gooey comfort meal that’s hard to resist. It’s like a cheeseburger and fries had a tasty, cozy baby in casserole form.
I love making this casserole when I want something simple but satisfying. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a big group hug — cheesy, crunchy, and full of familiar, cozy flavors. Plus, it’s a great way to use up ingredients you probably already have on hand! I usually toss in a bit of diced onion or pickles for a little extra zing.
If you’re serving this up for family or friends, I like to pair it with a fresh green salad to balance out all the cheesy goodness. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something warm and filling without a lot of fuss. And honestly, it’s one of those recipes that even the pickiest eaters tend to love, which makes me happy every time I make it.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This is the heart of the dish. I like using 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and juiciness. For a lighter version, ground turkey or chicken works well too.
Onion: Adds flavor and sweetness when cooked. You can swap with shallots or green onions if you prefer a milder taste.
Ketchup & mustard: These give the ‘burger’ flavor. If you want less sugar, try a low-sugar ketchup or add a bit of tomato paste with vinegar. Mustard can be Dijon or yellow depending on what you have.
Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth and umami. Soy sauce is a good substitute if you don’t have Worcestershire on hand.
Tater tots: These create the crispy topping. Frozen ones work great, but you could use seasoned potato cubes or even hash browns if you prefer.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar melts well and adds tang. Feel free to mix in mozzarella for stretchiness or use any melty cheese you like.
How Do I Get Crispy, Golden Tater Tots Every Time?
Getting the perfect crispy tater tot layer is key to this dish. Here’s how I do it:
- Arrange the tots in a single even layer on top; don’t overlap too much for even crisping.
- Don’t cover the casserole while baking — air circulation helps them turn golden.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-35 minutes, but keep an eye on them toward the end to avoid burning.
- If you want extra crispiness, you can broil for 1-2 minutes at the very end—just watch carefully!
These little steps make all the difference and give you that perfect crunchy top that contrasts so nicely with the cheesy beef underneath.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for browning the ground beef and cooking onions evenly.
- 9×13 inch baking dish – roomy enough for layering all ingredients and baking the casserole evenly.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – helps you stir the beef mixture without scratching your skillet.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate amounts of ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option that still tastes great.
- Add cooked diced bacon for extra smoky flavor and crunch.
- Mix in chopped bell peppers or mushrooms with the beef for extra veggies and texture.
- Swap cheddar cheese with pepper jack for a bit of spicy kick or mozzarella for creamier melt.
Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Optional: diced tomatoes or pickles for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30-35 minutes to bake, making a total of about 45 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick way to get dinner on the table with minimal effort.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing The Beef Mixture:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, cook the ground beef along with the finely chopped onion over medium heat. Keep stirring until the beef is fully browned and the onion is soft. Drain out any extra fat. Next, mix in the ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Let it cook together for another 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors well.
2. Layering The Casserole:
Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese all over the beef layer. Then place the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese, covering it completely.
3. Baking and Serving:
Bake the casserole uncovered in your preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the tater tots are golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Take it out carefully, sprinkle sliced green onions and optionally diced tomatoes or pickles over the top for a fresh burst of flavor. Allow the dish to cool a little before serving, then enjoy your delicious cheeseburger tater tot casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh ground beef for even cooking and texture. If you only have frozen beef, thaw it completely in the fridge overnight before cooking to avoid uneven browning.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to step 6 and refrigerate it uncovered or loosely covered for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftover Casserole?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
What Can I Serve with Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole?
This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with a light side like a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or coleslaw to balance out the rich and cheesy flavors.
