Big Mac Tater Tot Casserole – If you’re craving the flavors of a classic Big Mac. But want the comfort of a hearty casserole. This Big Mac Tater Tot Casserole is your answer. Featuring seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, tangy Thousand Island dressing, and crispy tater tots. This dish is perfect for a quick family dinner. Or a fun weekend treat.
The first time I made this Big Mac Tater Tot Casserole. I wasn’t sure how my family would react. I was experimenting in the kitchen. Trying to combine our favorite fast food flavors. With a homey, comforting casserole. When I pulled it out of the oven. My husband and child were drawn. By the delicious aroma. And couldn’t wait to dig in. One bite. And we were all hooked. It quickly became a household favorite. With requests for it at least once a month.
What makes this Big Mac Tater Tot Casserole truly special?
This casserole combines the best of both worlds – the savory, juicy flavors of a Big Mac. And the crispy, comforting goodness of tater tots. The addition of diced pickles. And a drizzle of Thousand Island dressing on top. Gives it that unmistakable Big Mac taste. While the melted cheddar cheese brings everything together. In a gooey, satisfying bite. It’s easy to prepare. Making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. That the whole family will love.
What You Need To Make This Big Mac Tater Tot Casserole Recipe?
Lean ground beef: Using lean ground beef. Keeps the casserole from becoming too greasy. While still providing rich flavor.
Thousand Island dressing: This adds the classic Big Mac tang. Tying the flavors together beautifully.
Mayonnaise: Adds a creamy texture. That enriches the beef mixture.
Diced yellow onion: Provides a subtle sweetness and slight crunch.
Diced dill pickle: Gives a zesty kick reminiscent of a traditional Big Mac.
Onion powder & garlic powder: Enhances the savory depth of the dish.
Shredded triple cheddar cheese blend: Melts into a gooey layer. That holds everything together.
Frozen tater tots: These crispy tots make the perfect topping. Adding texture and flavor.
Shredded iceberg lettuce: Adds freshness. And a bit of crunch to the finished dish.
Additional Thousand Island dressing: Drizzling on top. Enhances the Big Mac experience.
Steps To Make Big Mac Tater Tot Casserole:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to a cozy 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Grab a large sauté pan. Melt a dab of butter or margarine over medium-high heat. And add in your ground beef. Break it up as it cooks. Make sure it browns evenly.
Step 3: Once the beef is fully cooked and no pink remains. Drain the excess grease. And remove the pan from the heat.
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Step 4: Mix in the Thousand Island dressing, mayo, diced onion, diced dill pickle, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Until everything is well combined and smells amazing.
Step 5: Take a 9×13-inch baking dish. And give it a good spray with cooking oil. Spread the ground beef mixture evenly in the dish.
Step 6: Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the beef layer. Making sure every bite gets some cheesy goodness.
Step 7: Now, arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese. This is where it starts looking irresistible!
Step 8: Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for 40-45 minutes. Or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
Step 9: Once it’s done baking. Take it out of the oven and sprinkle shredded lettuce on top for that fresh, crunchy element.
Step 10: Finally, drizzle a bit more Thousand Island dressing over the lettuce to bring it all together.
Step 11: Serve up your Big Mac Tater Tot Casserole while it’s hot. And watch everyone dig in with smiles!
Step 12: Enjoy every cheesy, crispy, tangy bite!
Tip:
To take your Big Mac Tater Tot Casserole to the next level. Consider adding a thin layer of sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers. Between the beef and cheese layers. This adds an extra dimension of flavor. And texture. Making the dish even more satisfying. Additionally, for a healthier twist. You can use sweet potato tots. Instead of regular tater tots. They bring a unique sweetness. And are packed with nutrients. When reheating leftovers. Use the oven instead of the microwave. To keep the tater tots crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes. You can substitute ground turkey. For a leaner option. It will still be delicious!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container. In the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven. Or microwave before serving.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture. For extra flavor and nutrition.
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<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Big Mac Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 pound lean ground beef
- 1 c Thousand Island dressing
- 1/4 c mayonnaise
- 1 c diced yellow onion
- 1 c diced dill pickle
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 2 c shredded triple cheddar cheese blend
- 24 ounces frozen tater tots
For the topping:
- 1 c shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1/4 c Thousand Island dressing
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook ground beef in a pan, then drain the grease.
- Mix beef with Thousand Island, mayo, onion, pickle, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread beef mixture in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Arrange tater tots over the cheese.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until tots are golden.
- Top with shredded lettuce and drizzle with more Thousand Island dressing.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
