Description
This Loaded Cowboy Cheeseburger Casserole is a cheesy, bacon-filled comfort food favorite with a crispy potato topping—perfect for family dinners and meal prep!
Ingredients
Scale
- 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)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook until crispy. Drain on paper towels and chop.
- Prepare the Beef Mixture: In the same skillet, cook ground beef and onions until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Season the Meat: Stir in garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mustard, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Simmer for a couple of minutes.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread beef mixture in a greased baking dish. Top with bacon and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Prepare the Topping: Whisk eggs, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Arrange tater tots or diced potatoes on top and pour the egg mixture over them.
- Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes until potatoes are golden and crispy.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with extra cheese and green onions.
Notes
- Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or hot sauce.
- Low-Carb Version: Swap tater tots for cauliflower.
- Different Cheeses: Use pepper jack, mozzarella, or Swiss.
- Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cowboy casserole, cheeseburger casserole, tater tot casserole, bacon cheeseburger bake, easy family dinner