BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

Table of Contents

This BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole combines all the flavors of a classic bacon cheeseburger with the smoky sweetness of barbecue sauce, layered into a comforting and hearty casserole. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that satisfies all your burger cravings without the need for a grill! Plus, it’s an easy-to-make dish that’s sure to be a family favorite.

Ingredients

Base Layer:

1 pound ground beef (preferably 80/20 for flavor)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Cheese and Bacon Layer:

6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)

Tater Tot Topping:

1 (32-ounce) bag frozen tater tots

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Cook the Beef Mixture:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and garlic to the beef, sautéing until softened.
- Stir in the barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the beef layer.
- Evenly distribute the shredded cheese on top.
Add the Tater Tots:
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.
Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
- Optionally, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes for an extra-crispy topping.
Serve:
- Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions or a drizzle of extra barbecue sauce if desired.

Servings

This recipe serves approximately 6-8 people, depending on portion sizes.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: ~480
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 980mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 10g

(Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on the brands of ingredients used.)

Notes and Tips

Customizations: You can swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for extra heat or smoked gouda for more depth of flavor.
Toppings and Add-ons: Add sliced pickles, diced tomatoes, or shredded lettuce after baking for a fresh crunch.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the casserole and store it in the fridge (unbaked) for up to a day in advance. Just pop it in the oven when ready to bake.

Benefits

High Protein: Great for muscle recovery and keeping you full longer.
Kid-Friendly: Combines familiar flavors in a fun, easy-to-eat format.
Comfort Food: A satisfying, hearty dish that brings nostalgic burger flavors to the dinner table.

Q&A

Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
A: Yes! Thinly sliced or diced potatoes can be used. Just be sure to season them well and increase the baking time until tender.

Q: Can this casserole be frozen?
A: Absolutely. Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 50-60 minutes.