Ingredients:
For the Casserole:
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cheddar cheese soup
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup barbecue sauce
1 tablespoon ketchup
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 (20 oz) package frozen tater tots
For Topping:
1/2 cup crumbled cooked bacon
1/4 cup sliced green onions
1/4 cup pickled jalapeños (optional, for spice)
Directions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the Beef Mixture:
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain excess grease. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Combine the Base:
Stir in the cheddar cheese soup, sour cream, barbecue sauce, ketchup, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
Assemble the Casserole:
Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Layer the frozen tater tots on top in a single layer.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
Add Toppings:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, green onions, and optional pickled jalapeños over the casserole. Return to the oven for 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
Serve:
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm as a hearty, loaded meal.
Additional Information:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: ~55 minutes
Servings: 6–8
Calories: ~420 kcal per serving (varies with toppings)