Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my love for this cheeseburger tater tot casserole recipe! It’s like a warm hug in a dish, marrying the juicy flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the crispy, golden perfection of tater tots. I remember the first time I made it for a cozy family dinner – the aroma filled the kitchen, and everyone couldn’t wait to dig in! It’s one of those meals that brings everyone together, and trust me, it’s a total crowd-pleaser!

This casserole is so easy to whip up, and it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. You simply layer everything in one dish, pop it in the oven, and let it do its thing while you relax. I love how each bite offers that comforting cheeseburger flavor, complemented by the crunch of tater tots on top. Seriously, what’s not to love?

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just treating yourself to a comforting meal, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for the Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

• 1 pound ground beef (I like to use 80/20 for that juicy flavor!)
• 1 onion, chopped (it adds such a lovely sweetness when cooked)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (the more cheese, the better, right?)
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup (this is the secret to creaminess!)
• 1 cup milk (whole milk works wonders for richness)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (because garlic makes everything better)
• 1 teaspoon salt (don’t shy away from seasoning!)
• 1 teaspoon pepper (for a little kick)
• 1 bag frozen tater tots (the star of the show, crispy and golden!)

How to Prepare the Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden.
2. While the oven is heating up, grab a skillet and brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion over medium heat. Make sure to stir it occasionally so it cooks evenly. You’ll want to cook this until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are soft, about 7-10 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat—nobody wants a greasy casserole!
3. Next, sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper into the beef mixture. Give it a good stir to combine all those delicious flavors. Trust me, this step is crucial for that classic cheeseburger taste!
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until it’s nice and smooth. This creamy mixture is what brings everything together, so take your time here.
5. Now, it’s time to layer! In a baking dish, spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom. This is where all the flavors start to build!
6. Pour that creamy soup mixture over the beef layer, making sure to cover it well. You want every bite to be luscious!
7. Then, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top. I mean, can you ever have too much cheese? I think not!
8. Finally, take those frozen tater tots and arrange them in a single layer over the cheese. This is where the magic happens – they’ll get crispy and golden as they bake.
9. Pop the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the tater tots are golden brown and everything is bubbling. Your kitchen will smell incredible, and you’ll be counting down the minutes until you can dig in!

Why You’ll Love This Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

• It’s a one-dish wonder, making cleanup a breeze—less time scrubbing, more time enjoying!
• The flavors are a nostalgic nod to a classic cheeseburger, but with a fun twist that the whole family will love.
• Crispy tater tots on top create a delightful texture contrast with the creamy filling underneath.
• It’s super customizable! Feel free to add your favorite toppings or swap in different proteins.
• This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights—just pop it in the oven and let it do its thing while you unwind.
• Leftovers? No problem! It reheats beautifully for a quick lunch or dinner the next day.
• It’s a crowd-pleaser at gatherings; everyone will be coming back for seconds (and thirds!).

Tips for Success with the Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

Alright, let’s make sure your cheeseburger tater tot casserole turns out absolutely fantastic! Here are some of my top tips to keep in mind:

• Don’t skip the draining: After browning the beef, make sure to drain out any excess fat. It helps keep the casserole from becoming greasy. Trust me, nobody wants a soggy bottom!
• Mix it well: When combining the cream of mushroom soup and milk, aim for a smooth consistency. If it’s lumpy, it won’t spread evenly over the beef layer, and we want every bite to be creamy and delicious!
• Layer it right: Make sure to layer your ingredients properly. Start with the beef, then the soup mixture, followed by the cheese, and finally the tater tots. This order helps with flavor distribution and ensures the tots get that lovely crispy texture.
• Keep an eye on the time: Ovens can vary, so start checking your casserole around the 30-minute mark. You want the tater tots to be golden brown and crispy, but not burnt!
• Let it rest: After baking, let the casserole sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set a bit and makes it easier to serve without everything falling apart.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to get creative! Add some chopped pickles, crispy bacon bits, or even a drizzle of ketchup or mustard on top just before serving for an extra cheeseburger kick!
• Make-ahead magic: If you’re short on time, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge (just don’t bake it yet). When you’re ready to eat, pop it in the oven straight from the fridge—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the most amazing cheeseburger tater tot casserole ever! Happy cooking!

Variations of the Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

If you’re like me and love to mix things up in the kitchen, you’ll be thrilled to know that this cheeseburger tater tot casserole is super versatile! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a lighter twist, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. It’s just as delicious and a great way to cut down on calories!
• Veggie Delight: Add some chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the beef mixture for an extra boost of veggies. Not only does it add flavor, but it also makes the dish even more colorful!
• Cheesy Goodness: Mix in different types of cheese for a flavor explosion! Try pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for that gooey texture. You can never have too much cheese, right?
• BBQ Twist: Drizzle some BBQ sauce into the beef mixture for a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the tater tots. It’s like a backyard barbecue in a casserole dish!
• Topping Fun: Get creative with toppings! Add crispy bacon bits, sliced jalapeños, or even some diced pickles right before serving for that classic cheeseburger flair.
• Spicy Version: If you love a little heat, toss in some diced green chilies or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the beef mixture. It’ll definitely give your casserole a delightful kick!
• Breakfast Casserole: Make a breakfast version by adding scrambled eggs and swapping tater tots for hash browns. Top it with cheese and bake for a hearty morning dish!

With these variations, you can keep your cheeseburger tater tot casserole exciting and tailored to your taste buds! Feel free to experiment and find your favorite combination. Happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made this delicious cheeseburger tater tot casserole, and now you’ve got some leftovers (if you can believe it!). Don’t worry, it stores like a champ! Here’s how to keep it fresh and tasty for your next meal:

• Storing Leftovers: First, let the casserole cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation from making it soggy. Then, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay good for about 3-4 days. I usually label mine with the date so I know when to eat it!
• Freezing for Later: If you want to make it last even longer, you can freeze the casserole! Just cut it into portions, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It should keep well for up to 2 months. Just remember to write the date on the bag!
• Reheating in the Oven: When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, I recommend reheating in the oven to retain that crispy tater tot top. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil to prevent drying out, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. If you want to crisp up the top again, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave Option: In a pinch? You can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Just pop a serving on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel (to prevent splatter), and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking to make sure it’s heated all the way through. Keep in mind that the tater tots won’t be as crispy, but it’ll still hit the spot!

With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to savor that cheeseburger goodness all week long! Enjoy every bite!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of things! Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you use, so this isn’t an exact science. But here’s a typical breakdown for a serving of this delicious cheeseburger tater tot casserole:

• Calories: Approximately 450
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 20g

This casserole is a hearty meal, packed with protein and all the flavors you love! Just keep an eye on the sodium if you’re watching your intake. Enjoy every cheesy, crispy bite, and remember that comfort food is all about balance!

FAQ About the Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen tater tots?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh potatoes, you can cut them into small cubes and parboil them for about 5-7 minutes before adding them on top. Just make sure to season them well for that classic tater tot flavor!

What can I substitute for the cream of mushroom soup?
If mushrooms aren’t your thing, you can use a can of cream of chicken soup or even a homemade white sauce. Just make sure it’s creamy to achieve that luscious texture!

How do I make this casserole vegetarian?
To switch it up for a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and replace it with a mix of sautéed veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. You can also add some black beans for protein!

Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil. When you’re ready to bake it, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it’ll be starting cold.

What do I serve with this casserole?
This casserole is a meal on its own, but if you want to serve it with something, I recommend a simple side salad or some steamed veggies to balance out the richness. It’s also great with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of BBQ sauce on top!

Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole Recipe: 7 Comforting Reasons

---

• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A hearty cheeseburger tater tot casserole that combines flavors of a classic cheeseburger with crispy tater tots.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 bag frozen tater tots

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef and onion over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
3. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture. Stir well.
4. In a bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup and milk. Mix until smooth.
5. Layer the beef mixture in a baking dish.
6. Pour the soup mixture over the beef.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
8. Arrange tater tots in a single layer over the cheese.
9. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until tater tots are golden brown.

Notes

• Feel free to add additional toppings like pickles or ketchup.
• This dish can be prepared in advance and refrigerated before baking.
• Use ground turkey for a lighter version.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: cheeseburger tater tot casserole recipe