Dinners Lunches Meat

“CRACKED OUT” TATER TOT CASSEROLE

Get ready to indulge in comfort food at its finest with this “Cracked Out” Tater Tot Casserole. This dish takes the classic tater tot casserole to a whole new level with the addition of crispy bacon, creamy ranch seasoning, and gooey cheese. The result is a hearty and satisfying casserole that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or just when you’re craving a decadent meal. Each bite offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, from the crispy tater tots on top to the savory, cheesy filling underneath. It’s a dish that brings together all your favorite comfort foods in one easy-to-make casserole.

What makes this casserole truly “cracked out” is the blend of bacon, ranch, and cheese, creating a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for seconds. The tater tots provide a crunchy, golden-brown topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, flavorful base. This casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it a flexible and crowd-pleasing dish. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a casual family meal, this “Cracked Out” Tater Tot Casserole is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 8 slices)
  • 1 package (32 oz) frozen tater tots
  • 2 green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Cook Ground Beef:
    • In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium-high heat until the beef is browned and onions are softened. Drain excess fat.
  3. Combine Ingredients:
    • In a large bowl, mix together the cooked ground beef mixture, condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and half of the crumbled bacon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Layer in Baking Dish:
    • Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
    • Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the top of the beef mixture.
  5. Bake:
    • Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the tater tots are crispy and golden brown.
  6. Add Toppings:
    • Remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining crumbled bacon over the top.
    • Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
  7. Serve:
    • Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
    • Enjoy this “Cracked Out” Tater Tot Casserole as a hearty and delicious meal!

This casserole is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a comforting blend of flavors that everyone will love.