Big Mac Style Smash Burger Tater Tot Casserole

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 12 ounces frozen tater tots
• 1/2 cup Big Mac sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons minced onions
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup finely chopped pickles
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. 2 In a small bowl, mix ground beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Divide into 8 equal portions.
3. 3 Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat with oil. Flatten each beef portion into thin patties and cook until well-browned, about 2 minutes per side.
4. 4 Remove patties and set aside. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté onions until soft.
5. 5 Layer tater tots, smash burgers, sautéed onions, and half of the Big Mac sauce in the skillet.
6. 6 Sprinkle with cheddar cheese and top with remaining sauce.
7. 7 Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until tater tots are crispy and cheese is melted.
8. 8 Garnish with pickles and sesame seeds before serving.

Equipment

• Large oven-safe skillet
• Spatula
• Baking sheet

Variations

• Add sliced American cheese between the burger layer for extra Big Mac vibes.
• Substitute beef with turkey or veggie patties for a different twist.

Substitutions

• If Big Mac sauce isn't available, use a mix of mayonnaise, ketchup, and a dash of pickle relish.

Pairings

• Coleslaw
• Dill Pickle Chips
• Classic French Fries

Nutrition

Tips

• For best results, use a sturdy skillet that can go from stovetop to oven.
• Make sure to smash the burgers thin for that classic Big Mac texture.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of coleslaw and a dill pickle spear.
• Pair with a cold, crisp beer for a classic American meal.

FAQ