Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Skillet
If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal that brings comfort and fun to the dinner table, look no further than Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Skillet. This one-pan dish combines the nostalgic flavors of sloppy joes with crispy tater tots, making it a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also customizable to suit your family’s tastes, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 450
Protein: 22 grams
Carbohydrates: 45 grams
Fat: 24 grams
Fiber: 3 grams
Sugar: 3 grams
Sodium: 800 mg
Why Make Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Skillet
Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Skillet is not just delicious; it’s also a balanced meal. The combination of protein from the ground beef and carbohydrates from the tater tots makes it hearty and satisfying. Plus, it’s versatile—feel free to swap out the beef for turkey or a vegetarian alternative, and the toppings can be adjusted based on what you have on hand. It’s great for busy evenings when you need to get dinner on the table quickly without sacrificing flavor.
How to Make Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Skillet Step by Step
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 onion, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tbsp BBQ sauce
1 tbsp mustard
Directions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened.
- Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, BBQ sauce, and mustard, mixing well.
- Top the beef mixture with frozen tater tots evenly across the surface.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Cover the skillet and cook on medium heat until tater tots are golden and cheese is melted, about 25-30 minutes.
- Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Skillet
Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Skillet can be served with a side salad for a fresher plate or some steamed vegetables to round out the meal. For a bit of tang, serve with pickles on the side, or drizzle with additional BBQ sauce for those who like extra flavor.
How to Store Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Skillet
To store leftovers, let the skillet cool down and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days. When ready to reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm it up on the stove over medium heat. If you have extra that you won’t eat within a few days, consider freezing it in a freezer-safe container, where it will last up to three months.
Expert Tips for Cooking Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Skillet
- For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or lean beef for a healthier twist.
- Spice it up with diced jalapeños or hot sauce for those who enjoy a kick.
- Experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, for varied taste.
Delicious Variations of Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Skillet
- Vegetarian Delight: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative and add in your favorite chopped veggies.
- Spicy Sloppy Joe: Mix in diced green chilies or chili powder to the beef mixture for a heat boost.
- Herbed Variation: Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro sprinkled over before serving add a fresh, vibrant flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Skillet
Can I make Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Skillet ahead of time? Yes, you can prep everything except for the tater tots. Just add them on top before baking.
How do I know when the cheese is melted? You’ll see the cheese bubbling and golden around the edges.
Conclusion
You won’t regret trying Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Skillet. It’s a delightful dish that’s packed with flavor and easy to prepare. Perfect for any weeknight dinner or casual gathering, it’s sure to become a family favorite that you’ll make over and over again. Enjoy the tasty twist on a classic and watch everyone come back for seconds!

Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Skillet
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened.
- Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, BBQ sauce, and mustard, mixing well.
- Top the beef mixture with frozen tater tots evenly across the surface.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Cover the skillet and cook on medium heat until tater tots are golden and cheese is melted, about 25-30 minutes.







