Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole with Cheeseburger Flavor

Who doesn’t love the flavors of a classic cheeseburger? This Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole brings all the deliciousness of a cheeseburger into a comforting casserole dish that your whole family will enjoy!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 bag frozen tater tots

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F.
• In a skillet, brown ground beef with diced onions. Drain off excess fat.
• Season beef with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
• Stir in cream of mushroom soup and ketchup until well combined.
• Spread beef mixture in a casserole dish.
• Top with shredded cheddar cheese and then with tater tots.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until tater tots are crispy and cheese is melted.

Popular Questions:

• Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef if you prefer a lighter option.

• Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique flavor.

• Is there a substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

You can use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup as alternatives.

• How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace the ground beef with meatless crumbles or diced vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

• Can I add bacon to this casserole?

Absolutely! Crumbled bacon can be a delicious addition to this dish.

Helpful Tips:

• Try adding diced pickles and mustard for an extra cheeseburger flavor.
• Top the casserole with sliced tomatoes and lettuce after baking for a fresh twist.
• Sprinkle some sesame seeds on top of the tater tots for a burger bun look.
• For a spicy kick, add some chopped jalapenos or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
• Serve with a side of crispy bacon or a salad for a well-rounded meal.

Expert Secrets:

• Cook the ground beef until nicely browned to enhance the flavors in the casserole.
• Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Use high-quality cheddar cheese for a rich and gooey texture.
• Cover the casserole with foil for the first half of baking to prevent the tater tots from over-browning.
• Experiment with different seasonings like paprika or Worcestershire sauce for added depth of flavor.