Description
Crispy tater tots topped with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, sour cream, green onions, and jalapeños. Perfect as an appetizer or snack!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 (32 ounce) bag frozen tater tots
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (1 ounce) package taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños, chopped (optional)
- Your favorite hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned (5-7 minutes). Drain any excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened (5-7 minutes).
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the ground beef and vegetable mixture. Pour in the water and stir well to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Keep warm.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Spread the frozen tater tots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
- Transfer the baked tater tots to a large serving platter or baking dish.
- Spoon the warm ground beef mixture evenly over the tater tots.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese over the ground beef mixture.
- Place the platter under the broiler for a few minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch closely to prevent burning. Alternatively, you can return the platter to the oven for a few minutes until the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the oven or broiler and let cool slightly. Dollop with sour cream, sprinkle with chopped green onions, and add chopped pickled jalapeños (if using).
- Serve immediately with your favorite hot sauce on the side (optional).
Notes
- Meat Variations: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, ground chicken, or shredded pulled pork.
- Vegetarian Option: Use a plant-based ground meat substitute or black beans.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack, Colby jack, or queso fresco.
- Add More Veggies: Include other vegetables like corn, black beans, or diced tomatoes in the ground beef mixture.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the ground beef mixture for extra heat.
- Different Sauces: Drizzle with your favorite sauces, such as ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or a creamy avocado sauce.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes