Name: Big Mac Tater Tot Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds lean ground beef; 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped; 1 cup Thousand Island dressing; 1/4 cup Thousand Island dressing (for topping); 3/4 cup chopped dill pickles; 3 tablespoons mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons ketchup; 2 teaspoons yellow mustard; 2 teaspoons onion powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 bag (32 ounces) frozen tater tots; 1 1/2 cups shredded lettuce; 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)

Why You’ll Love Big Mac Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

If you love the combination of beef, pickles, cheese, and special sauce on a classic burger, this casserole delivers all of that in an easy-to-make format. It’s perfect for busy weeknights because it comes together quickly and bakes in one dish. The crispy tater tots add the perfect texture contrast to the savory beef layer, while the fresh lettuce and drizzle of sauce on top give it that unmistakable burger-inspired finish. It’s filling, flavorful, and great for feeding a hungry family or serving at casual gatherings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 pounds lean ground beef
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
1 cup Thousand Island dressing
1/4 cup additional Thousand Island dressing for topping
3/4 cup chopped dill pickles
3 tablespoons mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
2 teaspoons yellow mustard
2 teaspoons onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 bag (about 32 ounces) frozen tater tots
1 1/2 cups shredded lettuce
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 425°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.
Stir in 1 cup of Thousand Island dressing, chopped pickles, mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
Spread the beef mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef layer.
Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Top with shredded lettuce, drizzle with the remaining 1/4 cup of dressing, and sprinkle sesame seeds if desired before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations
You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter version. For extra cheesiness, add a layer of American cheese slices under the tater tots. If you enjoy a little heat, mix diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the beef mixture. To make it even more burger-inspired, add finely chopped tomatoes just before serving. For a lower-carb option, replace the tater tots with roasted cauliflower florets.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place portions in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for 1–2 minutes, though the tater tots may lose some crispiness. If freezing, assemble the casserole without the lettuce topping and freeze tightly covered for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate it, then bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes if starting from cold.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, leftovers can be frozen in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar is a great choice, but Colby Jack or a cheddar blend also melts beautifully and adds flavor.

How do I keep the tater tots crispy?

Arrange them in a single layer and avoid overlapping. Baking uncovered at a high temperature helps them crisp up nicely.

Can I use homemade sauce instead of bottled dressing?

Absolutely. A mix of mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and finely chopped pickles makes a great homemade substitute.

Is it necessary to add lettuce on top?

The lettuce adds freshness and gives it that burger-style finish, but you can skip it if preferred.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Yes, diced bell peppers or mushrooms can be cooked with the ground beef for added flavor and nutrition.

What can I serve with this casserole?

A simple green salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables pair well and balance the richness of the dish.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Check that your tater tots and condiments are labeled gluten-free, and the rest of the ingredients should work well.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The tater tots should be golden brown and crispy, and the filling should be hot and bubbling around the edges.

Conclusion

Big Mac Tater Tot Casserole is a fun and flavorful twist on a fast-food favorite, transformed into a comforting baked dinner. With its savory beef base, creamy tangy sauce, melted cheese, and crispy topping, it’s a satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to become a repeat request at your table.

Big Mac Tater Tot Casserole

Why You’ll Love Big Mac Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

Directions

Servings and timing

Storage/Reheating