Name: Cheesy Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 (32-ounce) bag frozen tater tots; 1 small yellow onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

When it comes to weeknight comfort food, few dishes deliver quite like this Cheesy Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole. Imagine juicy ground beef seasoned to perfection, blanketed with crispy tater tots, smothered in layers of melty cheddar and mozzarella, and finished with crispy bacon crumbles and fresh herbs. It’s a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal that hits all the right notes of savory, cheesy, and satisfying.

This casserole is the perfect hybrid of classic American cheeseburgers and hearty home-cooked casserole. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping an easy dinner idea for game night, or needing a reliable potluck hero, this dish does it all. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder that makes cleanup a breeze—you’ll love how little effort it takes to get such big flavor.

What Kind of Tater Tots Should I Use?

You can’t go wrong with classic frozen tater tots for this recipe, but if you want an extra crunch factor, opt for extra crispy or seasoned varieties. Sweet potato tots can also be a fun twist for a subtly sweet contrast. Just make sure they’re fully baked and golden for maximum texture.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole

Ground Beef: The foundation of this casserole, it brings a savory, meaty bite that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheeses.

Cheddar Cheese: Sharp and melty, cheddar adds bold flavor that stands up to the beef and tots.

Mozzarella Cheese: Offers a gooey, stretchy texture that makes the casserole irresistibly cheesy.

Tater Tots: These crispy nuggets form the top layer and give this dish its signature crunch and charm.

Yellow Onion: Adds depth and a slight sweetness to balance the richness of the beef.

Garlic: A touch of minced garlic enhances the flavor base of the beef.

Cream of Mushroom Soup: Acts as the creamy binder that holds everything together.

Worcestershire Sauce: Adds umami and depth to the beef mixture.

Cooked Bacon: Crumbled over the top, it adds a smoky, salty crunch.

Fresh Parsley: For garnish and a pop of color and freshness.

How To Make the Cheesy Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced onion until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess grease, then stir in Worcestershire sauce and the cream of mushroom soup. Mix until everything is well coated.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle half the shredded cheddar and mozzarella over the beef layer.

Step 4: Add the Tots

Arrange tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese. No need to overlap—keep them flat so they crisp up nicely.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the tots are golden and the filling is bubbly. In the last 5 minutes, sprinkle on the remaining cheese and crumbled bacon, then return to the oven to melt.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

Serving and Storing Cheesy Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole

Serve hot straight from the baking dish for maximum comfort and ease. Leftovers reheat beautifully and might even taste better the next day as flavors meld. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze individual portions for meal prep.

What to Serve With Cheesy Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole?

Classic Coleslaw

A creamy, tangy slaw offers refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.

Pickle Spears

Sharp and vinegary pickles cut through the richness and mirror burger night vibes.

Steamed Broccoli

Keeps the meal balanced and adds a nutritious veggie to the plate.

Garlic Green Beans

Quick to sauté and full of flavor, they complement the casserole beautifully.

Garden Salad

Add a vinaigrette-dressed salad for a crisp and light side.

Corn on the Cob

Simple, buttery corn is a perfect pairing for this comfort classic.

Deviled Eggs

A great make-ahead appetizer that pairs surprisingly well.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If this Cheesy Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole has you craving more cozy, cheesy goodness, check out these other hearty favorites:

Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a pasta-based comfort classic.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole for creamy, cheesy elegance in a dish.
Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for indulgent weeknight satisfaction.
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole if you want savory sweetness in every bite.
Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole to keep the comfort going from morning to night.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go extra bacon or double cheese? Add a little jalapeño heat?

I love seeing your variations and hearing how your family enjoyed it. Questions welcome too—let’s swap tips and make every bake better.

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