Cheesy Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

If you’re a fan of classic comfort food, this Cheesy Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole is about to become your new obsession.

Imagine everything you love about a juicy cheeseburger—savory beef, smoky bacon, tangy sauce, and plenty of gooey cheese—layered into one hearty casserole topped with golden, crispy tater tots.

It’s cozy, indulgent, and guaranteed to make any dinner feel like a treat.

I originally whipped this up after craving a burger but not wanting to fire up the grill. After a few trial runs (yes, soggy tots happened along the way), I finally perfected the balance of crispy, cheesy, and hearty.

Now, it’s my go-to dish when I want something that feeds a crowd and always earns rave reviews.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy – Every bite is smothered in melty cheddar goodness.
Crispy – Tater tots bake up golden brown with a crunch you can hear.
Hearty – Loaded with beef, bacon, and a creamy sauce that fills you up.
Simple – Just a handful of ingredients and easy steps, no fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded – Melts into a gooey blanket of flavor.
1 1/2 lbs ground beef – Brings that savory, burger-inspired taste.
1 package (32 oz) frozen tater tots – Crisps beautifully on top.
4–5 slices bacon, cooked and chopped – Smoky, salty bursts of crunch.
1 can (16 oz) sour cream – Creamy and tangy for balance.
1 medium onion, diced – Adds depth and a hint of sweetness.
1 can (10.5 oz) cheddar cheese soup – Creates the ultimate cheesy sauce base.
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – For a boost of umami-rich burger flavor.
1 tsp garlic powder – Brings a subtle punch of flavor.
1/2 tsp smoked paprika – A smoky note that ties it all together.
Salt & pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning.

Optional Add-Ons

Pickle chips – For a tangy, burger-classic finish.
Extra bacon – Because you can never have too much.
Hot sauce – Adds a little kick for spice lovers.

Tools You’ll Need

9×13 baking dish – The perfect size for this casserole.
Skillet – To brown the beef and onions.
Mixing bowl – For blending the creamy sauce base.
Spatula or spoon – To stir and spread evenly.
Measuring cups and spoons – For spot-on flavor balance.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick spray so nothing sticks.

Step 2: Cook the Beef and Onion

In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion for 7–10 minutes, breaking the beef apart with a spatula until browned. Drain off excess grease.

Step 3: Season the Beef

Stir in garlic powder, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, plus salt and pepper. Mix well and set aside—you’ll smell those burger vibes instantly.

Step 4: Mix the Creamy Base

In a large bowl, combine sour cream and cheddar cheese soup until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Beef and Sauce

Add the seasoned beef mixture into the creamy base and stir until evenly coated. Fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 6: Assemble the Base

Spread the beef mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the chopped bacon across the top.

Step 7: Top with Tots and Cheese

Layer the tater tots evenly over the beef. Sprinkle the remaining 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese on top.

Step 8: Bake and Serve

Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the tots are golden and the cheese is bubbling. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving hot.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in the fridge (airtight container) for up to 4 days.
Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes, or microwave for 2–3 minutes.

Tips for Success

Drain the beef well to avoid greasy, soggy layers.
Spread tots evenly for consistent crispiness.
Use a good-quality cheddar soup for flavor.
Let it rest before slicing for neat servings.

Substitutes and Variations

Swap beef for turkey or pork.
Use mozzarella for a creamier, milder cheese pull.
Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Add diced pickles or jalapeños for an extra kick.

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving, 8 total)

Calories: 580 kcal
Fat: 38g
Protein: 28g
Total Carbs: 32g
Fiber: 2g
Net Carbs: 30g

(Nutrition varies by brand.)

Pairing Suggestions

Serve with a crisp green salad for freshness.
Pair with a cold beer or soda for true burger vibes.
Add coleslaw on the side for crunch.
Try with mustard or BBQ sauce for dipping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Soggy tots – Always drain the beef.
Flat flavor – Don’t skimp on Worcestershire sauce.
Clumpy base – Warm the soup a bit before mixing.
Messy servings – Let it rest before cutting.

FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
Yes, just shred, par-cook, and crisp them first—though frozen tots save time and crisp up beautifully.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Bake, cool, then freeze. Reheat in the oven for best results.

No cheddar cheese soup on hand?
Mix heavy cream with extra cheddar cheese and a pinch of salt for a quick substitute.

Final Thoughts

This Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole is the definition of comfort food—cheesy, crispy, and hearty enough to satisfy even the hungriest crowd. Whether you’re serving it on game night, a weeknight dinner, or just craving a cheeseburger in casserole form, this recipe won’t disappoint. Grab a fork, dig in, and enjoy a bite of burger-inspired bliss in casserole form!

Bite & Bliss