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Tater tot sloppy joe skillet 2026 05 07 151025 683x1024

Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Skillet

A comforting and delicious blend of classic sloppy joe flavors with crispy tater tots, perfect for family dinners and game nights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 450 g ground beef Can substitute with lean ground beef or ground turkey.
  • 900 g frozen tater tots Feel free to use sweet potato tots for a healthier option.
  • 120 g shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 15 g garlic, minced

Sauces and Seasoning

  • 240 ml tomato sauce
  • 60 ml ketchup
  • 30 ml BBQ sauce
  • 15 ml yellow mustard
  • 15–30 ml Worcestershire sauce Adjust to taste.
  • 30 ml olive oil
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp paprika

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven and bake the frozen tater tots according to the package instructions until golden and crispy.
  • In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and chopped onion. Cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking up the meat until browned and the onions are translucent.
  • Incorporate minced garlic, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and paprika into the skillet. Stir constantly for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Pour in the tomato sauce, ketchup, BBQ sauce, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Stir to combine, then simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
  • Arrange the baked tater tots evenly over the beef mixture, sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese, and transfer the skillet to the oven.
  • Bake for 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop. Consider adding a side salad or steamed vegetables to complement the dish.
Keyword Comfort Food, Family Dinner, Quick Meal, Tater Tot Sloppy Joe, Weeknight Dinner