Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it apart. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Season with salt, pepper, and ranch seasoning.
- Prepare cheesy soup mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the cheddar cheese soup with a bit of water to loosen it up. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until the mixture is creamy.
- Assemble casserole: Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly in a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Layer the tater tots over the beef mixture.
- Top with cheese: Pour the cheesy soup mixture over the tater tots. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses on top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are crispy and the cheese is bubbling and golden.
- Finish with bacon: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with crumbled bacon before serving.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or beans.
- Add Veggies: You can add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for a little heat.
- Buffalo Chicken: Use shredded cooked chicken and buffalo sauce for a spicy, tangy twist.
Tips:
- Crispier Tater Tots: For extra crispy tater tots, bake them for a few minutes before adding the cheese and beef mixture on top.
- Cheese Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for a unique flavor.
- Meal Prep: You can assemble this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
- Make it Healthier: Use lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Crunchy Toppings: Consider adding a crispy breadcrumb topping for extra texture.
This casserole is incredibly versatile, and with these variations and tips, you can make it your own!
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