Delicious cheeseburger casserole topped with melted cheese and fresh ingredients.

Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe

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why make this recipe

Cheeseburger Casserole is an easy, comforting meal that pleases both kids and adults. It combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the convenience of a casserole. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish can be made quickly and is a sure crowd-pleaser. Plus, it brings a fun twist to traditional burgers, making it a unique option for family dinners.

how to make Cheeseburger Casserole

Ingredients:

For the Beef Filling:

  • 1.5 lbs Lean Ground Beef (85/15 or 90/10 works best to minimize grease)
  • 1 large Yellow Onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup Ketchup
  • 1/4 cup Yellow Mustard
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
  • 8 oz block Cream Cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1/2 cup Beef Broth

For the Casserole Assembly:

  • 3 cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese, divided
  • 1 cup Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese (or Colby Jack)
  • 1 (32 oz) bag Frozen Tater Tots or crispy potato rounds
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil or Avocado Oil
  • Optional Garnish: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Directions:

  1. Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish. This keeps the casserole from sticking and makes cleanup easier.

  2. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil. Once it’s shimmering, add the diced onion and cook for about 4-5 minutes until soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

  3. Push the onions and garlic to one side of the skillet. Add the ground beef to the empty side and break it apart with a spoon. Cook until it’s browned and no pink remains, around 7-10 minutes. Let it brown nicely for the best flavor.

  4. Carefully drain off excess grease from the skillet. This is important to prevent a greasy casserole. You can tilt the skillet and spoon out the fat or pour it through a colander.

  5. Return the skillet to medium heat. Add the softened cream cheese and beef broth. Stir until the cream cheese has melted and mixed in well.

  6. Stir in ketchup, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the sauce is uniform and coats all the meat. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

  7. Turn off the heat. Stir 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese and all of the Monterey Jack cheese into the beef mixture. This will create a cheesy filling.

  8. Pour the beef mixture into the greased casserole dish and spread it out evenly.

  9. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the beef mixture. Cover the entire surface with the potato layer.

  10. Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots.

  11. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. The casserole is ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tater tots are golden brown.

  12. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set, making it easier to scoop. Just before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a touch of color.

how to serve Cheeseburger Casserole

Serve Cheeseburger Casserole hot from the oven. It pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. You can also offer extra ketchup or mustard on the side for dipping, adding an extra touch of flavor.

how to store Cheeseburger Casserole

Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing them. Place the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven or microwave until hot throughout.

tips to make Cheeseburger Casserole

  • Use lean ground beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
  • Feel free to customize by adding your favorite burger toppings, like pickles or sautéed mushrooms, into the mix.
  • If you want extra crunch, try baking the tater tots a few minutes longer for a crispier top.

variation

You can switch things up by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version. Experiment with different cheese types or add ingredients like diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or even cooked bacon for more flavor.

FAQs

Can I make Cheeseburger Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef filling and assemble the casserole in advance. Just cover it and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
Absolutely! You can cut fresh potatoes into thin slices or cubes. Toss them with a bit of oil and seasonings before arranging them over the beef filling.

Is Cheeseburger Casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes, it is! You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed.

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