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This Loaded Cheeseburger Tater Tot Bake brings together the best of a juicy cheeseburger and crispy tater tots in one comforting casserole. It is a satisfying meal that comes together quickly and delivers rich, familiar flavors with a crunchy finish.
This dish has become a go-to in my house for quick dinners that everyone enjoys. I first made it when I needed something fast but hearty and it quickly became a family favorite.
Ingredients
- One pound of ground beef: for a rich and meaty base Choose fresh beef with good color for the best flavor
- Half a cup of chopped onions: to add sweetness and depth Pick firm onions that smell fresh
- One tablespoon of ketchup: to bring that classic burger tang Use a good quality ketchup without too much added sugar
- One tablespoon of mustard: for a bit of sharpness and balance Yellow mustard works well for the traditional flavor
- One cup of shredded cheddar cheese: for that melty, cheesy goodness Use sharp cheddar for a stronger taste
- One bag of frozen tater tots: as the crispy topping Select high-quality tots that crisp up nicely in the oven
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the ground beef and onions:
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces until browned and cooked through. Add the chopped onions and cook until they become soft and translucent, about five to seven minutes. Stir in the ketchup and mustard then remove from heat.
- Prepare the baking dish:
- Lightly grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. Spread the cooked beef and onion mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Add cheese and tater tots:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef layer. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top, covering the cheese completely.
- Bake to golden perfection:
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for twenty-five to thirty minutes until the tater tots are golden and crispy. Watch carefully to avoid overcooking.
Cheddar cheese is my favorite ingredient here because it melts perfectly and adds that comforting cheeseburger taste. One of my best memories with this dish is making it for a weekend family movie night when everyone wanted seconds.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within three to four days. Reheat gently in the oven to keep the tater tots crispy or use a microwave for a quick warm-up but expect softer tots. For freezing, cover tightly and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground turkey or chicken can replace the beef for a lighter option Plant-based ground meat substitutes work well for a vegetarian-friendly casserole Pepper jack cheese adds a spicy kick if you prefer a little heat Mustard can be swapped for Dijon for a more refined flavor profile
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad for freshness Roasted or steamed vegetables add color and nutrition Garlic bread pairs nicely to round out the meal and soak up any juices Top with chopped pickles or a drizzle of burger sauce to enhance the cheeseburger experience
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Cultural Context
This recipe takes inspiration from classic American comfort food favorites by combining elements of the cheeseburger and tater tots in casserole form. It’s a popular dish for casual family dinners and gatherings where easy prep and satisfying flavors are key.
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Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Servings
6
Nutrition per serving
Approximately 450 calories 25 grams protein 25 grams fat 2 grams sugar 800 milligrams sodium
Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe
- → Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?
Yes! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles. Just make sure to season well for best flavor.
- → How do I keep the tater tots crispy on top?
Arrange them in a single layer and bake uncovered at a high temperature—400°F works great. Don’t overcrowd the top.
- → Is this dish good for meal prep?
Absolutely. You can assemble it a day ahead and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best texture.
- → Can this be frozen?
Yes, freeze it before or after baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat until hot and crispy.
- → What toppings go well with this bake?
Try chopped pickles, sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, or a drizzle of burger sauce to amp up the flavor.
- → How long do leftovers last in the fridge?
Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.