Instructions:
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray.
Step 2
Place the chopped onion in a microwave-safe bowl with enough water to cover it.
Step 3
Microwave the onion until softened, then drain well.
Step 4
Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until fully browned.
Step 5
Drain any excess grease from the cooked beef.
Step 6
Spread the cooked ground beef evenly into the prepared casserole dish.
Step 7
Scatter the softened onions evenly over the beef.
Step 8
Spread the condensed golden mushroom soup evenly across the onion layer.
Step 9
Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese evenly over the soup.
Step 10
Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese.
Step 11
Bake the casserole for 20 minutes.
Step 12
Lightly spray the tater tots with cooking spray.
Step 13
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
Step 14
Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips and Variations:
Season the Ground Beef
Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, or a little Worcestershire sauce while browning the beef to give the casserole even more rich cheeseburger flavor without adding extra preparation time.
Add Classic Cheeseburger Toppings
Top each serving with chopped pickles, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, ketchup, mustard, or burger sauce to recreate the taste of a classic cheeseburger while adding freshness and extra texture.
Mix in Extra Vegetables
Cooked mushrooms, diced bell peppers, corn, or peas can be mixed into the beef layer to make the casserole heartier while adding extra flavor, nutrition, and color.
Try Different Cheeses
Sharp Cheddar gives the casserole its classic flavor, but Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a blend of cheeses can be used to create your own delicious variation.
Bake Until Crispy
Allow the tater tots to become deep golden brown before removing the casserole from the oven, as this creates the perfect crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy beef and cheese layers.
Storage
Store leftover Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze for Later
Freeze the fully cooled casserole or individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat until hot throughout.
