Description
This comforting casserole features a savory mix of ground beef, crispy bacon, and a cheesy blend, all topped with crispy tater tots. It’s an ideal choice for family dinners or potlucks, guaranteed to please a crowd!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 package (16 oz) frozen tater tots
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once crispy, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the cooked bacon and BBQ sauce into the beef mixture. Mix well and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, milk, and eggs. Whisk together until smooth and well combined.
- Add the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder to the egg mixture. Whisk again to incorporate all the spices evenly.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread the beef and bacon mixture evenly across the bottom.
- Pour the egg mixture over the beef layer, ensuring it covers the meat evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top of the egg mixture.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese, covering the entire surface.
- Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- After 30 minutes, check the casserole. If the tater tots are not yet golden, continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, keeping an eye on it to prevent burning.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving to help the layers set.
- Using a spatula, cut the casserole into squares and serve on plates.
- Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch and added flavor, if desired.
- This casserole pairs wonderfully with a side salad or coleslaw for a complete meal.
- If you have leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Notes
- Feel free to customize the cheese blend or add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking for a convenient meal option.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes