Description
Big Mac Tater Tot Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the classic flavors of a Big Mac burger with crispy tater tots, melted cheddar cheese, and tangy Thousand Island dressing. This easy-to-make casserole features a savory ground beef base seasoned with onions, pickles, and spices, topped with golden tater tots and cheese, baked to bubbly perfection. It’s a crowd-pleasing casserole perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup dill pickles, chopped
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Cheese and Toppings
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce (optional, for topping)
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (optional, for topping)
- Additional Thousand Island dressing for drizzling
Other
- 1 (32-ounce) bag frozen tater tots
Instructions
- Cook the beef mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Add chopped onions and sauté until soft. Drain excess grease from the skillet.
- Season the beef: Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, chopped pickles, salt, and pepper. Mix well and remove the skillet from heat.
- Prepare to bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Assemble the base layer: Spread the beef mixture evenly in the bottom of the baking dish. Drizzle 1/2 cup of Thousand Island dressing over the beef and sprinkle with 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Add tater tots: Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese layer, covering the beef mixture completely.
- Bake: Place the baking dish uncovered in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
- Rest and garnish: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven. Then top with shredded iceberg lettuce, sesame seeds, and drizzle with additional Thousand Island dressing as desired.
- Serve: Serve the casserole warm to enjoy the delicious Big Mac-inspired flavors in a comforting casserole form.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the tater tots; arrange them in a single layer for even crisping.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven for best texture.
- For a gluten-free version, check that the Worcester sauce and Thousand Island dressing are gluten-free.
