Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort Food Classic: Combines the beloved tastes of cheeseburgers and tater tots into one hearty casserole.
• Simple Ingredients: Utilizes common pantry staples and frozen tater tots for convenience.
• Quick Preparation: Minimal prep time makes it ideal for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1/3 cup diced yellow or sweet onion
• 2/3 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
• 2 tablespoons dill or sweet pickle relish
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 32 ounces frozen tater tots

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onions until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add Condiments: Stir in ketchup, yellow mustard, pickle relish, and salt. Mix well and spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
4. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens. Season with black pepper and remove from heat. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the cheese sauce over the beef mixture in the baking dish. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
7. Add Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
8. Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for some heat.
• Vegetable Boost: Mix in diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or pickles to the beef mixture for added flavor and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or place the entire casserole dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works well in this recipe.

Are there any substitutions for the cheese sauce?

If you’re short on time, you can substitute the homemade cheese sauce with a can of condensed cheddar cheese soup mixed with a little milk to achieve a pourable consistency.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this casserole gluten-free, use gluten-free flour in the cheese sauce and ensure that the tater tots and other processed ingredients are certified gluten-free.

What side dishes pair well with this casserole?

A fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or coleslaw make excellent side dishes to balance the richness of the casserole.

Conclusion

The Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole is a delightful fusion of classic comfort foods that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike. Its simplicity and versatility make it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

---

Print