Mini Chili Cheese Bacon Casserole

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin or individual ramekins with nonstick spray or butter.
2. Prepare Base:
   If using tater tots, bake them halfway according to package instructions. If using pasta, cook until al dente and drain well.
3. Assemble the Layers:
   Divide the tater tots or pasta evenly among the muffin cups. Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of chili on top of each base layer.
4. Add Bacon and Cheese:
   Sprinkle crumbled bacon evenly over the chili layer, then top each portion generously with shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Add Crunchy Topping:
   Finish with a spoonful of crushed chips or Fritos on each mini casserole for added texture.
6. Bake:
   Bake for 15–18 minutes until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and the tops are lightly golden.
7. Serve:
   Allow to cool for a few minutes before carefully lifting each mini casserole out of the tin using a spatula or spoon.

Variations:

• Substitute chili with ground beef taco meat for a Tex-Mex spin.
• Use pepper jack cheese for an extra kick.
• Try BBQ pulled pork in place of chili for a sweet-and-savory variation.

Tips:

• These can be assembled in advance and stored in the fridge, then baked just before serving.
• For a zesty finish, top with sour cream and sliced green onions right before serving.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin to the chili for extra depth of flavor.

These mini casseroles are comfort food at its best—quick to make, fun to serve, and guaranteed to please every crowd.