Ground beef: brings rich savory flavor and classic sloppy joe taste Choose eighty percent lean for a great balance
Frozen tater tots: bake up crispy on top and soak up the juices beneath Go for the extra crispy variety if your store carries it
Shredded cheddar cheese: gives you that irresistible melt I love using sharp cheddar for bold flavor
Chopped onion: adds sweetness and depth Look for firm yellow onions for best results
Olive oil: helps brown the beef and onions and gives a hint of richness Use a good quality olive oil for best results
Tomato sauce: creates a savory saucy base Use plain unsalted sauce and add your own seasonings
Ketchup: adds classic sloppy joe sweetness and tang Try to use a ketchup with real sugar if you can
BBQ sauce: brings smoky richness Use your family’s favorite style
Mustard: offers a zippy sharpness Go for classic yellow mustard for brightness
Worcestershire sauce: deepens the umami factor A splash or two goes a long way so taste as you add
Minced garlic: pumps up the flavor Fresh garlic is always worth it if you have it
Salt and black pepper: round out the seasoning Start with a little and adjust to taste
Onion powder: reinforces the savory onion profile Use a fresh jar for the boldest taste
Paprika: enhances color and adds a gentle warmth Spanish smoked paprika is amazing here if you have it
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Tater Tots:
Bake your tater tots according to the package instructions until they are extra crispy This is essential so they hold up their crunch after topping the skillet
Brown the Beef and Onion:
Heat olive oil in a large oven safe skillet over medium heat Add ground beef and chopped onion Cook for about eight minutes breaking the meat apart and letting the onion soften and turn golden This mixture is the flavor foundation so take your time
Sauté the Garlic and Spices:
Add minced garlic paprika onion powder salt and pepper Stir and cook for one minute so the garlic gets fragrant and the spices bloom in the oil
Build the Sloppy Joe Sauce:
Pour in tomato sauce ketchup BBQ sauce mustard and Worcestershire Stir well so everything comes together Let the mixture simmer over medium low for five minutes Allowing it to bubble and thicken ensures the flavors develop
Top and Broil:
Arrange the crispy tater tots in a single layer over the beef mixture Gently press them just barely into the sauce Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tots Place the skillet under the broiler for one to two minutes just until the cheese is melted and bubbling Keep a close eye so the cheese does not burn
