I appreciate how this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying meal. The savory ground beef mixture is rich and flavorful, while the crispy tater tots add the perfect crunch.
I love that everything comes together in one oven-safe skillet, which makes cleanup easier. The final broil melts the cheese into a bubbly, irresistible topping.
I also enjoy how family-friendly it is. It’s comforting, flavorful, and always a hit at the table.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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 1–2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce 1 tbsp garlic, minced 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 tsp black pepper 1 tsp onion powder 1 tsp paprika
Directions
I bake the frozen tater tots according to the package directions until they’re golden and crispy.
While the tots bake, I heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. I add the ground beef and chopped onion, cooking for 6–8 minutes while breaking up the beef until browned.
I stir in the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and paprika. I cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
I mix in the tomato sauce, ketchup, BBQ sauce, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. I let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors blend together.
I arrange the crispy tater tots in a single layer over the beef mixture in the skillet.
I sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top and place the skillet under the broiler for 1–2 minutes, until the cheese melts and bubbles.
I remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
I sometimes swap ground turkey for a lighter option.
When I want extra spice, I add diced jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
If I’m craving more texture, I mix in diced bell peppers with the onion.
I also enjoy topping the finished skillet with sliced green onions or a dollop of sour cream.
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, I warm portions in the oven at 350°F to help crisp the tots again. I can microwave it for convenience, but the tots will be softer.
I do not recommend freezing after assembly, as the texture of the tater tots can change.
FAQs
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, I prepare the beef mixture ahead and bake the tater tots fresh before assembling and broiling.
What type of cheese works best?
I prefer sharp cheddar, but Colby Jack or a Mexican blend also melts nicely.
Can I make this without broiling?
Yes, I can place it back into a 400°F oven for a few minutes until the cheese melts.
How do I keep the tater tots crispy?
I bake them fully before adding to the skillet and avoid covering the dish after broiling.
Can I use homemade sloppy joe sauce?
Absolutely. I use my favorite homemade version if I have one on hand.
Conclusion
I love how this Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Skillet combines bold, saucy beef with crispy potatoes and melted cheese in one comforting dish. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights. Whenever I need an easy meal that everyone enjoys, this is a recipe I happily make.
Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Skillet loaded with seasoned ground beef, tangy sloppy joe sauce, crispy golden tater tots, and melted cheddar cheese. A hearty one pan comfort food dinner the whole family will love.
Author:Emma
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:40 minutes
Yield:6 servings
Category:Main Course / Casserole
Method:Stovetop + Baking
Cuisine:American
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 onion, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
¼ cup ketchup
2 tablespoons BBQ sauce
1 tablespoon mustard
1–2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
1. Bake the Tater Tots
Prepare frozen tater tots according to package directions until golden and crispy. Set aside.
2. Cook the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and chopped onion. Cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking up the beef until browned and fully cooked.
3. Add Seasonings
Stir in minced garlic, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Make the Sloppy Joe Sauce
Mix in tomato sauce, ketchup, BBQ sauce, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Let simmer for 5 minutes to allow flavors to blend and slightly thicken.
5. Add the Tater Tot Layer
Arrange crispy tater tots in a single layer over the beef mixture in the skillet.
6. Melt the Cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheddar evenly over the tater tots. Broil for 1–2 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Use ground turkey for a lighter option.
Add diced bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
For a spicy kick, mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
