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#### Instructions:
**Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef**
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the beef is browned and cooked through.
3. Add the chopped onion to the beef and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the onion is softened.
4. Season the beef mixture with Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
**Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Mixture**
1. Stir in the can of cream of mushroom soup, ketchup, and mustard to the beef mixture. Mix everything until fully combined and heated through.
2. Remove from heat and set aside.
**Step 3: Assemble the Casserole**
1. Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Spread the beef and soup mixture evenly in the bottom of the casserole dish.
3. Top the beef mixture with a layer of frozen tater tots, arranging them in a single layer over the beef. Make sure to cover the beef evenly with tater tots for a crispy, golden crust.
**Step 4: Bake the Casserole**
1. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
2. Once the tater tots are cooked, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar and American cheese evenly over the top. Return to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
**Step 5: Garnish and Serve**
1. After the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
2. Top the casserole with chopped dill pickles and shredded lettuce for that true Big Mac experience. You can also add some sliced onions for an extra bite.
3. Serve and enjoy!
### Tips for the Best Big Mac Tater Tot Casserole
– **Customize the Meat**: If you want a leaner option, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. The flavor will still be delicious, but with fewer calories.
– **Add Bacon**: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding some cooked, crumbled bacon on top of the beef mixture before baking. It’ll give the casserole a smoky crunch that’s irresistible!
– **Make it Spicy**: If you like a little heat, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
– **Try Different Cheeses**: While cheddar and American cheese are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for a bit of spice or mozzarella for a melty, gooey texture.
– **Meal Prep**: This casserole is perfect for making ahead. Assemble it the night before and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it. It also reheats well, making it great for leftovers.
### Conclusion
The **Big Mac Tater Tot Casserole** is a fun and creative twist on your favorite fast food burger, combining all the flavors you love in an easy-to-make casserole. From the seasoned beef and creamy soup base to the crispy tater tots and melted cheese, this dish is packed with deliciousness that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, game day, or just craving a comforting meal, this casserole will satisfy your hunger and leave everyone coming back for more.
So go ahead, give this Big Mac-inspired casserole a try! It’s sure to become a new go-to in your recipe collection, loved by both kids and adults alike.
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