Sloppy Joe Tater Tots are a fun and tasty twist on a classic dish. This delightful recipe combines the savory goodness of Sloppy Joes with crispy, golden tater tots. Perfect for game day, family dinners, or a casual gathering, these Sloppy Joe Tater Tots are sure to become a favorite!
Why Make This Recipe
Making Sloppy Joe Tater Tots is a great way to enjoy two comfort foods in one dish. They are easy to prepare and can be ready in about 30 minutes. Plus, the combination of flavors from the seasoned beef and melted cheese over crispy tater tots makes for a delicious treat that everyone will love. Whether you are feeding a crowd or just want to indulge yourself, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
How to Make Sloppy Joe Tater Tots
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups frozen tater tots
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Directions:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until the beef is browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Preheat the oven according to the tater tots package instructions.
- Spread tater tots in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake according to package instructions until crispy.
- Once tater tots are done, remove from the oven and top with the beef mixture and cheddar cheese.
- Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
- Serve warm.
How to Serve Sloppy Joe Tater Tots
Serve your Sloppy Joe Tater Tots hot from the oven for the best taste. They make a perfect main dish or a hearty appetizer. You can also add some toppings, like sliced jalapeños, sour cream, or fresh cilantro, to enhance the flavors.
How to Store Sloppy Joe Tater Tots
To store leftovers, let them cool and place them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them for a longer period, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat, pop them in the oven until warmed through.
Tips to Make Sloppy Joe Tater Tots
- For extra flavor, consider adding some spices like garlic powder or paprika to the beef mixture.
- You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
- Feel free to mix in some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms with the onion for added veggies.
Variation
If you want to switch things up, try using different types of cheese like pepper jack for a spicy twist, or mozzarella for a milder flavor. You can also try different sauces, like BBQ sauce, instead of ketchup for a distinct taste.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh tater tots instead of frozen?
Yes, but the cooking time may vary. Be sure to follow the cooking instructions for fresh tater tots if you choose to use them.
2. How spicy can I make these Sloppy Joe Tater Tots?
You can add hot sauce to the beef mixture or incorporate diced jalapeños for extra heat. Adjust according to your taste preference.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the dish just before baking for the best results.
Sloppy Joe Tater Tots
Ingredients
For the beef mixture
- 1 lb ground beef You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- 1 onion, chopped Feel free to mix in chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for added veggies.
- 1 cup ketchup You can substitute with BBQ sauce for a different taste.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the tater tots
- 4 cups frozen tater tots Preheat the oven according to the package instructions.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese You can try different types of cheese like pepper jack or mozzarella.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until the beef is browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Cooking
- Spread tater tots in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake according to package instructions until crispy.
- Once tater tots are done, remove from the oven and top with the beef mixture and cheddar cheese.
- Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
- Serve warm.
