TATER TOT SLOPPY JOE SKILLET
Golden tots meet cheesy beef magic in one incredible skillet!
A hearty, one-pan meal with crispy tater tots, saucy seasoned beef, and loads of melty cheese—perfect for busy nights or weekend cravings.
Ingredients
1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80% lean)
1 bag (28–32 oz / 800–900 g) frozen tater tots
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
¾ cup ketchup
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon yellow mustard
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1½–2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Colby-Jack, or mozzarella)
2 tablespoons oil or butter
Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the Tater Tots
Bake tater tots according to package directions until golden and crispy.
Set aside. (Air fryer works great too.)
2. Brown the Beef
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
Add oil or butter, then ground beef and diced onion.
Cook until beef is browned and onion is soft.
Drain excess grease if needed.
Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
3. Make the Sloppy Joe Sauce
Stir into the beef:
Ketchup
Tomato paste
Worcestershire sauce
Brown sugar
Mustard
Chili powder & paprika
Salt and pepper
Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thick and saucy.
4. Assemble the Skillet
Nestle the crispy tater tots evenly on top of the beef mixture.
Sprinkle cheese generously over everything.
5. Melt & Finish
Place skillet under the broiler for 3–5 minutes, or
Bake at 400°F (205°C) for 10–15 minutes,
until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve
Garnish with parsley or green onions.
Serve hot, straight from the skillet.
Serving Ideas
Add a side salad or coleslaw
Top with sour cream or pickles
Serve with hot sauce or jalapeños for heat
Tips & Variations
Swap beef for ground turkey or chicken
Add corn or bell peppers to the beef
Extra cheesy? Add a second layer of cheese
Want it spicy? Add ½ tsp cayenne
