- Preheat the oven: Set to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with diced onions until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, mix 1000 Island dressing, mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Combine ingredients: Stir the chopped pickles and sauce mixture into the cooked beef and onions. Mix well to coat evenly.
- Assemble the casserole: Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Add tater tots: Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese, covering the casserole evenly.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted.
- Finish with toppings: Remove from the oven and sprinkle shredded lettuce and sesame seeds over the top before serving.
Serving and Storage
Serve this Big Mac Tater Tot Casserole warm for a cheesy, hearty meal. It pairs well with extra 1000 Island dressing or ketchup on the side. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results to retain crispiness of the tater tots.
This casserole can also be prepared ahead of time. Assemble in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Tips:
- Use frozen tater tots straight from the bag; don’t thaw to maintain crispiness.
- For extra flavor, add a little garlic powder or paprika to the beef mixture.
- Layer cheese under and over the tater tots for gooey, cheesy perfection.
- Customize with cooked bacon, diced tomatoes, or pickled jalapeños for a twist.
- Serve immediately for the crispiest topping; leftovers can soften but remain delicious.
Conclusion:
The Big Mac Tater Tot Casserole is a fun, indulgent, and flavor-packed dinner that brings all the favorite elements of a Big Mac into a single, cheesy, crispy dish. Easy to prepare and guaranteed to please a crowd, it’s perfect for family dinners, casual nights, or game-day meals. Each bite delivers savory beef, tangy pickles, creamy sauce, melted cheese, and crispy tater tots — the ultimate comfort food mashup!
FAQ:
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, cheddar works best, but American, Colby, or a blend of cheeses can also be used.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free tater tots and ensure all condiments are gluten-free.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a larger baking dish and adjust baking time as needed.
What side dishes pair well?
Serve with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of extra pickles and dipping sauces.