Are you ready for a dish that’s both hearty and unbelievably delicious? Look no further than the Loaded Cowboy BBQ Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole Supreme! This isn’t your average casserole; it’s a flavor explosion that takes the classic cheeseburger and transforms it into a comforting, crowd-pleasing experience.
Imagine layers of savory ground turkey, smoky bacon, and your favorite BBQ sauce, all blanketed with crispy tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. It’s the perfect recipe for a casual weeknight dinner, a potluck gathering, or a game-day feast.
This casserole is the definition of comfort food, offering a satisfying combination of textures and tastes that will leave everyone reaching for seconds. Let’s lasso up the ingredients and get started!
Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Casserole Base:
• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1/2 lb turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (use your favorite!)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Toppings:
• 3 cups frozen tater tots (or cooked pasta or mashed potatoes)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños (optional, for a kick)
• 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
• 1/4 cup sour cream (for garnish, optional)
Rodeo Ready: Step-by-Step Instructions
This recipe is easy to follow, even for kitchen beginners. Here’s how to bring this flavor-packed casserole to life:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prep
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure even cooking and perfectly crispy tater tots.
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. This will prevent sticking and make serving a breeze.
Step 2: Cook the Turkey Base
1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. This ensures even cooking and allows the flavors to meld.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté for another 3–4 minutes until softened. This will build the flavor base of the casserole.
3. Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to combine all those delicious flavors.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
1. Transfer the cooked turkey mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom of the dish.
2. Sprinkle the cooked and crumbled turkey bacon evenly over the top of the turkey mixture.
3. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the turkey and bacon. You can also use cooked pasta or mashed potatoes as a base if you prefer.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
1. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
2. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top and return to the oven for another 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and irresistibly gooey.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a minute.
2. Garnish with pickled jalapeños (if using), sliced green onions, and a dollop of sour cream (if desired). These add a burst of freshness and flavor.
3. Serve hot with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Pro Tips for Casserole Success
1. Spice It Up: For an extra kick, add a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the turkey mixture.
2. Make Ahead Magic: Assemble the entire casserole up to a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake just before serving. This is perfect for busy weeknights.
3. Leftover Love: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a crisp texture or microwave for convenience.