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Golden tater tots and seasoned beef covered with bubbling cheddar come together in this skillet to make a crave-worthy weeknight dinner. There is something about the classic flavors of sloppy joes and crispy potatoes that always feels like a hug on a plate. If you love meals that are big on comfort with minimal fuss this dish is perfect for you.
This skillet has become our Sunday night tradition whenever we want something cozy but playful. The first time I baked this my family was scraping the skillet clean and begging for seconds.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: adds hearty flavor and is perfect for soaking up all those sauces choose lean beef for less grease
- Frozen tater tots: give the ultimate crispy topping toast them first for best texture
- Shredded cheddar cheese: melts beautifully and brings gooey richness to each bite buy a block and shred for extra melt
- Onion, chopped: forms the backbone of your sloppy joe base pick yellow or sweet for depth
- Olive oil: helps brown the beef and onions use extra-virgin for the best flavor
- Tomato sauce: builds saucy body choose one with no added sugar if possible
- Ketchup: gives tangy sweetness a classic in sloppy joe recipes
- Barbecue sauce: adds smoky flavor pick your favorite style for a custom spin
- Mustard: provides a subtle zing yellow or Dijon both work well
- Worcestershire sauce: adds umami richness a little goes a long way
- Garlic, minced: brings a punch of savory depth use fresh for real flavor payoff
- Salt and black pepper: round out the seasoning taste as you go for the perfect level
- Onion powder: extra oniony flavor for that classic sloppy joe taste
- Paprika: adds a gentle smokiness try smoked for even bolder flavor
Instructions
- Prepare the Tots:
- Bake your frozen tater tots according to the package directions until they are golden and crispy. This helps them keep their crunch later.
- Brown the Beef and Onion:
- Warm olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet set over medium heat. Add ground beef and the chopped onion. Cook for six to eight minutes until the beef is browned and crumbly and the onion has begun to soften. Stir frequently to keep things even and use a spatula to break up the beef as you go.
- Season the Mix:
- Add minced garlic salt black pepper onion powder and paprika to the skillet. Cook for about one minute stirring often until the garlic is fragrant and the spices have bloomed in the oil.
- Build the Sloppy Joe Base:
- Pour in tomato sauce ketchup barbecue sauce mustard and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well to combine everything. Let the mixture simmer for five minutes so the sauce thickens and all the flavors come together. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
- Top and Bake:
- Remove the skillet from heat. Arrange the crispy tater tots evenly in a single layer over the beef mixture. Sprinkle shredded cheddar over the top. Place in a preheated oven and bake just until the cheese is melted and bubbling and everything is heated through.
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Sloppy joes always remind me of summer picnics as a kid and now I love sharing this playful version at the family table. My favorite part is that crispy cheesy tot topping because it just makes everyone grin when you serve it.
Storage Tips
Let the skillet cool completely before storing leftovers. Spoon into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For best results reheat in the oven which helps the tater tots stay crisp. The microwave works for a quick lunch but tots will be softer. If you want to freeze portions wrap them tightly then thaw and bake until hot.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap ground turkey or chicken for the beef to lighten it up. Try a vegan meat substitute if you want a plant-based version. Pepper jack or mozzarella cheese gives a different flavor twist if you are out of cheddar. Use tomato paste mixed with a little water instead of tomato sauce if you like a richer base.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the skillet piping hot straight from the oven with a green salad or simple steamed veggies on the side. It also works great as a casual party dish just set it out with small plates and let everyone dig in. For extra fun add sliced pickles or a dollop of sour cream on top.
A Little History
Sloppy joes have been a classic American family meal since the Great Depression when cooks stretched ground meat with sauce and seasonings. This version takes the nostalgia up a notch by adding tater tots first invented in the 1950s as a way to use leftover potato bits. The result is a dish that blends two icons of American comfort food into one irresistible dinner.
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This skillet makes any weeknight feel special with hardly any work. Enjoy every cheesy crispy bite and look forward to making it again soon.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a flavorful, lighter option that works well and blends with the seasonings and sauce.
- → Do tater tots need to be cooked first?
Bake them separately first for extra crispness, then layer over the skillet mixture before the final bake.
- → Can this be made ahead?
Prepare the beef mixture in advance and assemble before final baking for best texture and freshness.
- → What cheese works best?
Cheddar adds classic bite, but Monterey Jack or a blend brings extra creaminess.
- → Is it possible to freeze leftovers?
Yes, cool completely, store airtight, and reheat in an oven for best results.