Description
This slow cooker casserole is a deliciously cheesy, hearty meal with all the classic bacon cheeseburger flavors, now lightened up with turkey bacon. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish delivers comfort food satisfaction with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- Ground Beef: 1 lb (substitute ground turkey for an even leaner option)
- Turkey Bacon: 6 slices, cooked and crumbled
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Condensed Cheddar Cheese Soup: 1 (10.75 oz) can
- Milk: 1 cup
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, divided
- Frozen Tater Tots: 1 (16 oz) package
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Chopped Pickles (Optional): For garnish
- Ketchup and Mustard (Optional): For serving
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess grease.
2️⃣ Sauté onion and garlic:
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is tender and fragrant.
3️⃣ Prepare the cheese mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the condensed cheddar cheese soup and milk until smooth.
4️⃣ Combine ingredients:
Add the cooked beef mixture, crumbled turkey bacon, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl. Stir until well combined.
5️⃣ Layer the casserole:
Spread half of the frozen tater tots in the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour the beef and cheese mixture over the tater tots, spreading it evenly.
6️⃣ Top with remaining tater tots:
Arrange the rest of the tater tots on top of the beef mixture.
7️⃣ Add cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots.
8️⃣ Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the casserole is heated through, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9️⃣ Serve:
Dish out hot, garnished with chopped pickles for a tangy crunch, if desired. Serve with ketchup and mustard on the side for an authentic cheeseburger touch.
Notes
- Substitutions: Use ground turkey in place of ground beef for a lighter option.
- Extra crispiness: For crispy tater tots, use a slow cooker with a crisping lid or broil the casserole in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
- Flavor boost: Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture for an umami kick.
- Custom toppings: Try diced tomatoes, pickled jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-5 hours (low)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6