Name: Loaded Cowboy Cheeseburger Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1/4 cup ketchup; 1 tbsp mustard; 6 slices bacon, cooked and chopped; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 3 cups frozen tater tots or diced potatoes; 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 2 tbsp green onions, chopped (for garnish)

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Short Description

Loaded Cowboy Cheeseburger Casserole is a hearty, flavor-packed dish that combines all the best elements of a classic cheeseburger with a comforting casserole format. Featuring seasoned ground beef, crispy bacon, melty cheese, and a golden potato topping, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or game-day gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty and Satisfying: This casserole is packed with protein, cheese, and potatoes, making it a filling meal for any occasion.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, this dish is great for home cooks of all skill levels.
Family-Friendly: The classic cheeseburger flavors appeal to kids and adults alike.
Perfect for Meal Prep: It stores well and can be reheated for easy lunches or dinners.
Customizable: Swap out ingredients to fit different tastes and dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Ground beef
Onion
Garlic
Worcestershire sauce
Ketchup
Mustard
Bacon
Cheddar cheese
Frozen tater tots or diced potatoes
Heavy cream or milk
Eggs
Salt
Black pepper
Smoked paprika
Green onions (for garnish)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels, then chop into small pieces.
Prepare the Beef Mixture: In the same skillet, cook the ground beef with chopped onions until browned. Drain excess fat.
Season the Meat: Stir in minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mustard, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to develop flavors.
Layer the Casserole: Spread the beef mixture evenly in a greased baking dish. Sprinkle chopped bacon over the top, followed by a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese.
Prepare the Topping: In a bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Arrange frozen tater tots or diced potatoes on top of the casserole and pour the egg mixture evenly over them.
Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden and crispy.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with additional cheddar cheese and green onions before serving.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for some heat.
Low-Carb Version: Substitute tater tots with cauliflower florets or mashed cauliflower.
Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for pepper jack, mozzarella, or Swiss cheese.
Extra Veggies: Include mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Wrap portions tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

How do I make this casserole ahead of time?

Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen tater tots?

Yes, diced or thinly sliced fresh potatoes work well but may require a slightly longer baking time.

What can I serve with this casserole?

A simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or coleslaw pair nicely with this dish.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Adjust seasonings as needed for extra flavor.

How do I make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cheese and replace heavy cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut milk.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook the beef mixture first, then layer everything in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.

What’s the best way to crisp up the potatoes?

For extra crispiness, broil the casserole for a few minutes after baking.

Can I add BBQ sauce?

Absolutely! A drizzle of BBQ sauce in the beef mixture or on top adds a smoky sweetness.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Ensure all condiments are gluten-free and use gluten-free tater tots or potatoes.

Can I use leftover hamburger patties?

Yes! Chop them up and use them in place of the ground beef for an easy shortcut.

Conclusion

Loaded Cowboy Cheeseburger Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining bold flavors, a crispy potato topping, and gooey cheese into one irresistible dish. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it today and enjoy a delicious twist on the classic cheeseburger!

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