Loaded Cowboy Cheeseburger Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Loaded Cowboy Cheeseburger Casserole brings the delicious, savory flavors of a cheeseburger into a one-pan dish. With a mix of beef, cheese, pickles, onions, and BBQ sauce, it’s like having a cheeseburger but in casserole form. The crispy tater tots on top add an irresistible crunch that takes this dish to the next level. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ cup BBQ sauce

• 2 tablespoon ketchup

• 1 tablespoon mustard

• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup cooked beef, crumbled

• ½ cup diced pickles

• ½ cup chopped onions

• 2 cups frozen tater tots

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Brown ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Drain excess grease.

3. Stir in BBQ sauce, ketchup, and mustard, mixing until well combined.

4. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with half of the cheese, crumbled beef, pickles, and onions.

5. Arrange tater tots over the top and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.

6. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted. Serve hot!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for a plant-based alternative, such as veggie crumbles or lentils.

• Spicy Twist: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.

• Different Cheese: Try using Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.

• Add Veggies: For extra nutrition, you can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the casserole.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tater tots instead of frozen ones?

Yes, you can use fresh tater tots if you prefer. Just make sure to cook them to the same crispiness as the frozen variety.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some spice, you can incorporate chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy mustard into the mix.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add about 5 extra minutes to the cooking time to account for it being cold.

Can I substitute the BBQ sauce with something else?

You can substitute BBQ sauce with a different type of sauce, such as teriyaki sauce, ranch dressing, or even a combination of ketchup and hot sauce.

How do I make the casserole extra cheesy?

If you’re a cheese lover, you can add more shredded cheese on top and throughout the casserole to make it extra cheesy.

What type of beef should I use?

Ground beef with a fat content of 80% to 85% works best for this recipe. It provides good flavor and moisture without being too greasy.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack to vary the flavor.

How long does this casserole keep in the fridge?

It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. To freeze before baking, cover it with plastic wrap and foil and store for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes.

Can I add more toppings?

Feel free to get creative with toppings! You can add chopped lettuce, tomatoes, or a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing to serve.

Conclusion

This Loaded Cowboy Cheeseburger Casserole is the perfect comfort food dish, combining all the beloved flavors of a cheeseburger in a cozy casserole format. With crispy tater tots, savory beef, and melty cheese, it’s an easy and satisfying meal for any occasion. Enjoy the flavors of a classic burger in every bite, and feel free to get creative with the toppings and variations to make it your own.